Macaroni and cheese (often called “mac and cheese”) is a classic comfort food made with tender macaroni coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and baked until golden.
Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
Ingredients (6–8 servings)
- 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until just al dente; drain.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, stirring frequently.
- Add most of the cheese and stir until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned.
Tips
- Use sharp cheddar for deeper flavor.
- Mix several cheeses for extra richness.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
The result is creamy on the inside, cheesy throughout, and beautifully golden on top—the kind of classic homemade mac and cheese many people associate with family dinners and holiday gatherings.
