Description
Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food featuring creamy layers of cheddar and mozzarella cheese baked to bubbly, golden perfection. This classic recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich milk and egg mixture, making it hearty and satisfying for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
Dairy & Eggs
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 370 mL (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan to prepare it for the macaroni and cheese layers.
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain well and return the macaroni to the pot.
- Add Butter: Stir the salted butter into the hot, drained macaroni until melted and evenly coated. Set aside while preparing the milk and cheese mixtures.
- Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt until smooth and fully combined.
- Mix the Cheese: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses thoroughly.
- Layer the Dish: In the prepared baking pan, start by layering one-third of the macaroni, then one-third of the cheese mixture. Repeat this layering process two more times until all macaroni and cheese have been used.
- Pour Milk Mixture: Evenly pour the combined milk and egg mixture over the layered macaroni and cheese in the baking pan.
- Sprinkle and Bake: Generously sprinkle the top with paprika for flavor and color. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is a golden brown crust.
- Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly, then serve your rich and creamy Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with a fresh vinaigrette salad, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or tangy barbecue dishes to complement the creamy pasta’s flavors.
- Customization Tips: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda, substitute butter with lighter options or olive oil, keep cheeses at room temperature to avoid clumping, and add cooked bacon or sautéed onions for extra flavor.
- Storing and Reheating: Cool leftovers completely before refrigerating in airtight containers for 3-5 days or freezing for up to a month. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Notes
- Make sure to cook the macaroni until just al dente to avoid overcooking during baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
- Room temperature cheese helps prevent clumping for a smooth cheese mixture.
- Use salted butter for a richer taste, or substitute with light butter or olive oil to reduce calories.
- Adjust seasoning with garlic salt and paprika to taste; other herbs and spices can be added as desired.
- Store leftovers tightly covered to maintain moisture and flavor.
- Reheating with a little milk preserves the creamy texture of the dish.
