Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

This Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that’s sure to please everyone! It features tender pasta shells coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

  • Classic Comfort Food: This recipe delivers all the nostalgic flavors of homemade macaroni and cheese.
  • Creamy and Cheesy: The cheese sauce is perfectly smooth and coats every piece of pasta.
  • Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a breeze to put together.

Ingredients

  • Shells Pasta: Cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
  • Butter and Flour: Used to create a roux, the base of the cheese sauce.
  • Whole Milk: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
  • Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, and Nutmeg: Enhance the flavor of the sauce.
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp and cheesy flavor.
  • Seasoned Panko Breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy and flavorful topping.

How to Make Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta shells according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes to prevent them from becoming mushy in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and pour into a baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Bake until golden brown and bubbly.

Tips for Making Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

  • Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it will have the perfect texture after baking.
  • Stir Continuously: Stir the sauce continuously while cooking to prevent it from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  • Adjust Cheese Topping: For a stretchier cheese topping, add the cheese and breadcrumbs during the last 5 minutes of baking.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
  • As a Main Course: This macaroni and cheese is hearty and satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.
  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or your favorite main courses.
  • With a Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the macaroni and cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

This macaroni and cheese can be frozen before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use elbow macaroni, rotini, or any other small pasta shape.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try using Gruyère cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or a blend of your favorites.

3. How can I make this macaroni and cheese creamier?
You can add more milk or cream to the sauce, or use a higher fat content milk.

4. Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the macaroni and cheese a day ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese. I hope you enjoy it!

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Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 1 from 1 review
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: main dishes
  • Method: baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It features a creamy and cheesy sauce with a hint of nutmeg, baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 cups shell pasta, cooked 2 minutes less than al dente
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/3 cup seasoned panko bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and cook pasta: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook pasta according to package directions, but reduce cooking time by 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened, stirring constantly.
  3. Combine ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Combine with cooked pasta.
  4. Bake: Pour mixture into an 11×7 inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and panko bread crumbs. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Cook pasta slightly less than al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the oven.
  • Cook the sauce over medium heat to prevent scalding.
  • If you prefer a cheesier topping, add the cheese and breadcrumbs 5 minutes before the end of the baking time.
  • You can shred the cheese ahead of time.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • For a stovetop version, cook an extra 1/2 cup of pasta and omit the panko topping or toast it separately.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Serving
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 660mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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