Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese – Welcome to the world of comfort food with our tantalizing Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese recipe. This classic dish is a perfect combination of creamy cheese, tender elbow macaroni, and a delightful crumb topping that will transport you back to childhood. Get ready to indulge in a cheesy delight that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Picture this: it’s a cozy evening at home, and the aroma of bubbling cheese fills the air. The whole family gathers around the table, eager to dig into their favorite macaroni and cheese. As they take their first bite, a symphony of “mmms” and “wows” fills the room. This recipe has become a beloved staple in our household, bringing smiles to our faces and creating unforgettable moments together. Now, we’re excited to share this treasured recipe with you, so you can experience the same joy and create your own cherished memories.
Why This Macaroni and Cheese Will Steal Your Heart?
- Creamy and Cheesy Bliss: This macaroni and cheese recipe boasts a velvety, rich cheese sauce that envelops each macaroni noodle, creating a decadent and indulgent experience.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of sharp Cheddar cheese, a hint of ground mustard, and a touch of salt and pepper creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
- Crumbly Topping: Our recipe takes this classic dish to the next level with a crunchy Panko bread crumb topping, adding a delightful contrast of textures and an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Family-Friendly Comfort: Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to potlucks and gatherings, this macaroni and cheese is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this macaroni and cheese with ease, even on busy weeknights. It’s a recipe that brings together simplicity and incredible flavor.
Ingredients:
- 454 grams (1 lb.) elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions
- 75 grams (5 tbsp.) unsalted butter
- 30 grams (¼ cup) all-purpose flour
- 7 grams (1 ¼ tsp) ground mustard
- 480 ml (2 cups) milk, whole or 2%
- 360 ml (1 ½ cups) half and half cream
- 450 grams (4 cups) Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crumb Topping:
- 55 grams (½ cup) Panko bread crumbs
- 28 grams (2 tbsp.) unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the flour to the melted butter and stir for 1 minute to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk and half and half, while whisking continuously. Add the ground mustard, salt, and pepper as you whisk.
Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare a baking dish.
Drain and rinse the cooked elbow macaroni, then place it back into the baking dish.
Carefully pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni and stir well to combine.
In a separate bowl, mix the ingredients for the crumb topping (Panko bread crumbs and melted butter).
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and broil the top for an additional minute or two until the topping turns golden and crispy.
Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Dig in and savor every cheesy, comforting bite!
Notes:
- Experiment with Different Cheeses: While Cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to explore other cheese varieties such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of different cheeses to customize the flavor profile.
- Adding Extra Ingredients: To make this recipe your own, consider incorporating cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even diced tomatoes for additional layers of flavor.
- Leftover Magic: Refrigerate any leftovers and reheat them in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal the next day.
In conclusion, this Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese recipe is more than just a dish—it’s a nostalgic journey back to comforting flavors and cherished memories. The velvety cheese sauce, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and crispy crumb topping come together to create a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this macaroni and cheese is sure to bring smiles, warmth, and moments of pure culinary bliss.
So, gather your loved ones, set the table with anticipation, and get ready to experience the magic of this classic recipe. Let the aroma fill your home, as laughter and conversation fill the air. With every bite, you’ll be transported to a place where comfort and indulgence collide, leaving you with a happy heart and a satisfied appetite.
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness, and savor the moments created around this beloved dish. Make it your own by adding personal touches or enjoying it as is, relishing in its timeless appeal. Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese is not just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, togetherness, and the joy of indulging in simple pleasures. Enjoy, create memories, and keep the tradition alive!
FAQs
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven until warmed through, and if desired, broil the top to regain its crispy texture.
Can I freeze this macaroni and cheese?
Absolutely! You can freeze the macaroni and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can certainly experiment with other pasta shapes such as shells, penne, or cavatappi. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta you choose.
What can I serve with this macaroni and cheese?
This macaroni and cheese can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. Let your cravings guide you!
Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 454 grams 1 lb. elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions
- 75 grams 5 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 30 grams ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 7 grams 1 ¼ tsp ground mustard
- 480 ml 2 cups milk, whole or 2%
- 360 ml 1 ½ cups half and half cream
- 450 grams 4 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crumb Topping:
- 55 grams ½ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 28 grams 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the flour to the melted butter and stir for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk and half and half, while whisking continuously. Add the ground mustard, salt, and pepper as you whisk.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare a baking dish.
- Drain and rinse the cooked elbow macaroni, then place it back into the baking dish.
- Carefully pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni and stir well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix the ingredients for the crumb topping (Panko bread crumbs and melted butter).
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and broil the top for an additional minute or two until the topping turns golden and crispy.
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Dig in and savor every cheesy, comforting bite!
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