Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
When it comes to classic comfort foods, nothing quite compares to a warm, creamy, and cheesy bowl of homemade mac and cheese. This traditional dish has been a family favorite for generations, offering the perfect balance of richness, creaminess, and crisp topping that makes every bite irresistible. In this article, we share the ultimate Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe, ensuring that your homemade version is both mouthwateringly delicious and easy to prepare.
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Ingredients for the Perfect Mac and Cheese
A well-balanced mac and cheese consists of two essential components: the creamy cheese sauce and the crispy breadcrumb topping. Below, we provide a detailed list of ingredients required to make a perfect homemade mac and cheese.
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For the Mac and Cheese:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape) | 8 oz (2 cups) |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tbsp |
| Whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness) | 3 cups |
| Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, divided) | 4 cups (about 16 oz) |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor) | 1/4 tsp |
For the Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Breadcrumbs (panko or regular) | 1 cup |
| Melted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1/2 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Mac and Cheese
Follow these simple yet effective steps to create the most satisfying mac and cheese at home.
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Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Continue stirring and cook for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly add 3 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.
- Stir gently until each noodle is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- This topping adds a crispy, golden-brown texture to the dish when baked.
Step 5: Bake the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the mac and cheese mixture into it.
- Spread the breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.
