If you’re craving a bowl of rich, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, look no further than this Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese. It's the kind of dish that brings back childhood memories, warms your soul, and makes everything feel just a little better.
No weird ingredients. No shortcuts. Just a wholesome, homemade mac and cheese recipe the way Grandma used to make it — simple, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to whip up the best classic mac and cheese ever. Most of it is probably in your pantry already!
Main Ingredients:
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2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk (warm)
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2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for depth)
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¼ teaspoon paprika or cayenne (optional, for a little kick)
Optional Topping (for baked version):
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 tablespoon melted butter
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Extra cheese for topping
💡 Tip: Always shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that mess with that silky-smooth melt!
👩🍳 How to Make Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese
Step 1 – Boil Your Pasta
Cook your macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook – the pasta will cook a bit more if you bake it later!
Step 2 – Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux Magic!)
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking. Let it simmer until it thickens (about 3–5 minutes). Stir in shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Step 3 – Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss your cooked pasta into the sauce and mix until everything’s beautifully coated. You can serve it creamy right now or go the baked route.
Step 4 – Bake for Extra Comfort (Optional but YUM!)
Pour into a buttered baking dish. Top with extra cheese and a buttery breadcrumb mix. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
🌟 Why This Mac and Cheese Is a Must-Try
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✅ Real, simple ingredients
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✅ No artificial flavors or fillers
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✅ Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly nostalgic
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✅ Great as a main dish or side
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✅ Kid-friendly and crowd-approved
🔄 Variations to Try
Want to switch things up a little? Here are some delicious twists:
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Four-Cheese Mac – Mix in mozzarella, Gruyère, and parmesan.
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Bacon Mac & Cheese – Add crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor.
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Buffalo Mac – Stir in a splash of buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
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Vegan Version – Use dairy-free cheese and plant milk + oil-based roux.
🧠 FAQ – Everything You Need to Know
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Just prep everything, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve. Add a splash of milk before baking if it thickens too much.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar is a must for bold flavor, but feel free to mix in others like Monterey Jack or Gouda for creaminess.
Can I freeze it?
Totally! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat with a bit of milk to bring back that creaminess.
🧀 Final Thoughts – A Bowl Full of Nostalgia
This Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese is everything comfort food should be — warm, cheesy, creamy, and made with love. It’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Whether you're feeding the whole family or just making a cozy bowl for yourself, this dish hits the spot every time. 💛
It’s not just mac and cheese — it’s the mac and cheese.
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