Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese – Easy Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and nostalgia of a classic dish of old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food, evoking memories of family dinners, holiday gatherings, and cozy nights in.

This recipe is a tribute to the timeless, old-fashioned version—creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, butter, and elbow macaroni. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal, a potluck, or a special occasion, this dish is a family-friendly favorite that everyone will love. Join me as we recreate this beloved classic, step by step. Trust me, once you taste this old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese, it’ll become a regular on your menu!

Why You’ll Love This old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese

If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy, and comforting dishes, this old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese is about to become your new favorite. Here’s why:

1. Creamy and Cheesy Perfection: This recipe delivers the ultimate indulgence with its rich, velvety cheese sauce and gooey melted cheddar. Every bite is pure comfort.
2. Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, butter, and elbow macaroni, this dish comes together effortlessly—no fancy techniques required.
3. Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or a potluck with friends, this old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese is always a hit. It’s the type of food that brings people together.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a timeless classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

All you need to make old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese:

• 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni – or substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – for a creamy rich base.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – to thicken the cheese sauce (use gluten-free flour if necessary).
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk – for a luscious, creamy texture.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere or mozzarella cheese – for extra creaminess and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for a subtle kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional) – adds a hint of warmth and color.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – for a crispy, golden topping (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed).

Substitutions for Dietary Needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter, milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
• Nut-Free: Ensure all substitutions are nut-free if needed.

Pro Tip:

Using high-quality cheese makes all the difference in this recipe. Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy flavor, while Gruyere or mozzarella brings a creamy, melty texture. Don’t skimp on the cheese—it’s the heart of this dish!

Step By Step Instructions

Creating the perfect old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese is easier than you think. Follow these steps to achieve a creamy, cheesy, and golden masterpiece:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking and helps create that irresistible golden crust.

2. Cook the Macaroni: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and place it over high heat until it reaches a vigorous, rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until it’s just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• Place a large saucepan on the stove over medium heat and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt slowly until it becomes smooth and bubbly.
• Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux. This will thicken the sauce.
• Gradually pour in 2 1/2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
• Reduce the heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded Gruyere or mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.
• Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional) for a hint of warmth.

4. Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until every noodle is evenly coated.

5. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy, golden finish.

6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly (20-25 minutes)

7. Rest and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.

This step-by-step guide ensures your old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese turns out creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious every time. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Creamy Texture: Use whole milk and high-quality cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
• Golden Crust: For an extra crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the dish during the last few minutes to prevent the top from burning.

Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Want to take your old fashioned baked mac and cheese to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure it’s absolutely perfect every time:

1. Use a Mix of Cheeses:
   • Combine sharp cheddar for tanginess, Gruyere for creaminess, and a touch of Parmesan for depth. A blend of cheeses creates a richer, more complex flavor.
2. Let It Rest Before Serving:
   • After baking, allow the dish to rest for 6-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve and ensuring the perfect consistency.
3. Add a Crispy Topping:
   • For that irresistible golden crust, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers over the top before baking. For extra crunch, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter.
4. Cook Pasta Al Dente:
   • Boil the macaroni until it’s just al dente (slightly firm). This ensures the pasta stays firm, as it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing it from turning mushy.
5. Season the Sauce Well:
   • Don’t forget to season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or mustard powder for a subtle kick.
6. Avoid Overbaking:
   • Bake the dish only until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling with cheesy goodness. Overbaking can dry out the dish, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes.

With these tips, your old fashioned mac and cheese with breadcrumbs will be the ultimate cheesy baked macaroni and cheese—creamy, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. These are some suggestions to make it more special:

Serving Suggestions:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a balanced meal.
• Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Garlic Bread: Add a side of warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting, carb-loaded feast.
• Protein Pairings: Serve alongside grilled chicken, baked ham, or roasted turkey for a hearty meal.

Variations to Try:

1. Meaty Twist:
   • Add cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a protein-packed version.
2. Gluten-Free Option:
   • Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for the roux. Top with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
3. Vegan Version:
   • Substitute butter with vegan butter, milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and cheese with dairy-free cheddar and mozzarella alternatives.
4. Southern Style:
   • Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick, and top with a buttery breadcrumb mixture for that classic southern style baked macaroni and cheese vibe.
5. Extra Cheesy:
   • Mix in additional cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or Parmesan for an even richer flavor.
6. Kid-Friendly:
   • Keep it simple with just cheddar cheese and skip the breadcrumbs for a family-friendly baked macaroni and cheese that even picky eaters will love.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe of old fashioned baked macaroni and Cheese or try one of these variations, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

Conclusion

There’s a reason old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese has stood the test of time—it’s creamy, comforting, and utterly irresistible. This recipe brings together simple ingredients and classic techniques to create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy night in. With its rich cheese sauce, golden crust, and endless customization options, this mac and cheese is most probably to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s guaranteed to bring satisfaction to the table.

Looking for a gluten-free twist? Try using gluten-free egg noodles! Check out our Gluten-Free Egg Noodles: 7 Reasons They’re a Kitchen Staple article to learn why they’re a must-have in your pantry.

So, what are you waiting for? Try this old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese dish and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you added. Whip up this classic dish, and let it bring warmth and happiness to your home. Happy cooking!

FAQs About Old Fashioned Baked Mac and Cheese