Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

If you are craving a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, look no further than this Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. This classic dish delivers creamy, cheesy bliss with every bite, combining the perfect blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, a touch of garlic salt, and a lovely golden crust topped with paprika. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe brings that soul-soothing goodness you can’t resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this recipe are delightfully simple yet essential for achieving that rich, smooth texture and unforgettable cheesy flavor. Each component plays a vital role— from the tender elbow macaroni that holds the sauce beautifully, to the blend of cheeses that creates a luscious melt, right down to the hint of paprika that adds a subtle depth of color and taste.

• 3 cups dry elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto all that creamy cheese sauce.
• 4 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the macaroni with the cheese mixture.
• 2 370 mL/12 oz cans evaporated milk: Creates a luxuriously creamy texture without being too heavy.
• 1/3 cup milk of choice: Balances the evaporated milk for smoothness and helps loosen the sauce.
• 2 large eggs: Act as a binder to give structure and prevent the dish from falling apart.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt: Delivers subtle savory flavor enhancing the cheese.
• 4 cups cheddar cheese (shredded): The sharp, tangy base that defines traditional mac and cheese.
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded): Provides gooey stretchy texture and a mild creamy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a warm, smokey finish and beautiful golden color on top.

How to Make Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan. This ensures your mac and cheese won’t stick and will form that irresistible crispy crust we all love.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until the pasta is al dente, around 7 to 8 minutes, so it holds its shape and isn’t mushy after baking. Drain and return the macaroni to the pot.

Step 3: Add Butter

Stir the salted butter into the hot macaroni until it melts completely. This coats the pasta, keeping it luscious while adding richness that complements the cheese beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, your regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt until fully combined. This mixture will infuse the pasta with flavor and create that velvety sauce texture once baked.

Step 5: Cheese Mixture

Next, combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in a separate bowl. This combination ensures a perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness that defines this classic dish.

Step 6: Layer the Dish

In your prepared baking pan, start by spreading one-third of the macaroni, then add one-third of the cheese mixture. Repeat this layering until all ingredients are used, building a beautifully structured, cheesy masterpiece.

Step 7: Pour Milk Mixture

Evenly pour the combined milk and egg mixture over the layered macaroni and cheese. This step is crucial because it seeps through all layers, binding everything into that ultimate creamy comfort.

Step 8: Sprinkle and Bake

Generously sprinkle paprika on top, adding not just color but a hint of warm spice. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until your mac and cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating that inviting crust you want to dig into.

Step 9: Ready to Serve

Remove from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to set, and then get ready to enjoy your Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe fresh and piping hot.

How to Serve Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts the creamy richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions can add an amazing savory crunch.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, bring a lovely earthy balance and a pop of color. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or smoked barbecue for a truly satisfying feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake the mac and cheese in individual ramekins for personal servings or layer it in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic family-style presentation. You may also consider topping with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips before baking for extra crunch and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Stored properly, it will keep its deliciousness in the fridge for 3 to 5 days, perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to one month. Just make sure it’s cooled and wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. When frozen in portions, it’s convenient to thaw overnight in the fridge for a hassle-free meal anytime cravings hit.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. To reinvigorate the creamy texture, add a small splash of milk before covering with foil and popping it back in the oven. This keeps it from drying out or becoming tough.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use shells, rotini, or even penne. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for different pasta types to keep that perfect al dente bite.

Is evaporated milk necessary in this recipe?

Evaporated milk adds creaminess without being overly heavy. You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, but the texture and richness may change slightly. It’s definitely worth trying to get that signature smoothness.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To keep it vegetarian, simply ensure your cheese is made with vegetarian-friendly rennet. For vegan, swap the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a dairy-free milk substitute. The eggs can be replaced with a vegan binder like flaxseed meal mixed with water.

What can I add to give my mac and cheese a little extra flavor?

Mix in extras like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, fresh herbs, or even a dash of smoked paprika or mustard powder to elevate the flavor and make the dish uniquely yours.

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed. This makes hosting stress-free while delivering that perfect comfort dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about the Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe that warms hearts and fills plates with joy. With its creamy layers of cheese, tender pasta, and that golden baked top, it’s a dish that never goes out of style. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and dive into this timeless favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home as well!

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