Good Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

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Craving the ultimate comfort food? This Good Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, this homemade mac and cheese is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and holiday feasts. Say goodbye to boxed mac and cheese—this recipe will have your family coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Ultra Creamy – A rich, velvety cheese sauce coats every bite.
• No Fancy Ingredients – Simple, pantry-friendly staples.
• Family Favorite – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages.
• Customizable – Easily switch up the cheese or add mix-ins.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Elbow Macaroni (3 cups, dry) – The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce.

• Salted Butter (4 tbsp) – Adds richness and enhances flavor.

• Evaporated Milk (2 cans, 12 oz each) – Creates a creamy, smooth texture.

• Milk of Choice (⅓ cup) – Adds extra creaminess to the sauce.

• Large Eggs (2) – Helps bind the ingredients and create a custard-like texture.

• Garlic Salt (¼ tsp) – Adds a subtle savory kick.

• Cheddar Cheese (4 cups, shredded) – Provides a sharp, tangy cheesiness.

• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Adds a melty, gooey texture.

• Paprika (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor and gives a warm, golden color when baked.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability.
• Make it Extra Creamy – Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream for a richer texture.
• Add a Crispy Topping – Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
• Spice it Up – Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.

Variations and Customizations:

• Smoky Flavor – Use smoked cheddar or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
• Meaty Addition – Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or ground beef for extra protein.
• Veggie Boost – Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or caramelized onions.
• Gluten-Free Option – Swap regular pasta for gluten-free macaroni.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Garlic Bread – A crispy side that soaks up the creamy sauce.
• Grilled Chicken – Adds protein and pairs well with cheesy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables – A light, healthy contrast to the rich dish.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Popular Questions:

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?

A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack creates the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent my mac and cheese from being dry?

Make sure to use enough milk and cheese and don’t overbake!

Can I make this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Follow the same steps but instead of baking, stir everything together in a large pot over low heat until the cheese melts.

Good Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Good Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of tender macaroni coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of garlic and paprika. Baked to golden perfection, this classic dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp salted butter
• 2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
• 1/3 cup milk of choice
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 tsp garlic salt
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp paprika

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Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta – Boil macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and mix with melted butter.
3. Whisk the Sauce – In a medium bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt until well combined.
4. Layer the Ingredients – In the baking dish, layer 1/3 of the macaroni, then 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
5. Pour & Bake – Evenly pour the milk mixture over the macaroni. Sprinkle the top with paprika.
6. Bake to Perfection – Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve & Enjoy – Let cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, and comfort food cravings.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique twist.
• Leftovers reheat well and taste just as delicious!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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