Savor the nostalgic delight of our Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe! This timeless classic is the epitome of comfort food, bringing back cherished memories of family gatherings and heartwarming meals. If you're yearning for a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that never goes out of style, look no further. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to create a homemade Mac and Cheese masterpiece that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese :
- 16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta shape
- 4 cups (960ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (100g) Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (100g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it is slightly undercooked to prevent mushiness during baking. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes while constantly stirring until it turns golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens and gently boils.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack cheeses, reserving some for later. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is well coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac and cheese, along with the remaining shredded cheeses.
- Bake the Mac and Cheese in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top turns golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Embrace the heartwarming goodness of our Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe - a beloved classic that stands the test of time. With its creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a touch of nostalgia, this dish is sure to create memorable moments for your family and friends. Whether it's a comforting weeknight dinner or a celebratory feast, our Mac and Cheese will leave you wanting more. Give it a try and experience the ultimate taste of comfort!
Nutritional Information Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 740 kcal
- Total Fat: 47g
- Saturated Fat: 29g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 570mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 32g
Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. It's essential to consider individual dietary needs and make adjustments accordingly. While Mac and Cheese is a delicious treat, it's important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.