Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food, this old-fashioned mac and cheese features a rich cheese sauce, creamy texture, and a golden baked crust. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Baking Dish
- Whisk
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or preferred pasta shape
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk or a mix of milk and heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese freshly shredded, optional but recommended
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder optional, enhances flavor
Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs for a crispy topping
- 2 tbsp butter melted, to mix with breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheeses, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your old-fashioned mac and cheese!
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper. You can also mix in cooked bacon or caramelized onions for a twist.