Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese 🧀

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Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese 🧀

Ingredients

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk (warmed)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but adds depth)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika (optional for color)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 2 tbsp butter (melted)
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta, rinse with cool water to stop the cooking, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually pour in the warm milk and cream, whisking to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Remove from heat and slowly add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

  1. Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat every piece evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and optional Parmesan. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  3. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
  4. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Let the mac and cheese cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
  • Pair with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Mac and Cheese:

  1. Cheese Choice:
    • Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar gives a classic taste, mozzarella adds creaminess, and Parmesan brings a salty tang. Experiment with Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for variety.
  2. Seasoning:
    • Taste the cheese sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  3. Topping Alternatives:
    • Swap breadcrumbs for crushed Ritz crackers or crispy fried onions for a unique twist.
  4. Make-Ahead:
    • Assemble the mac and cheese without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake just before serving.
  5. Leftovers:
    • Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture, or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

This Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is rich, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings! 🧀🍴

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