Description
Ready to dig into the ultimate comfort food? This Delicious Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. It’s everything you crave in a hearty, homemade dish. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, a cozy side for family gatherings, or an easy recipe for potlucks, this mac and cheese brings warmth and joy to every plate. The rich blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates a smooth, gooey sauce that hugs every bite of pasta, topped with a lightly crisped crust that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Add this to your list of classic food ideas — it’s a keeper!
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 7–8 minutes), then drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk and cream, stirring until the mixture thickens (4–5 minutes).
- Lower heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a dash of paprika.
- Combine pasta with cheese sauce, mixing until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle extra cheese and paprika on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.