Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a timeless classic that has been cherished across generations. This recipe for Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is a throwback to those comforting, creamy dishes that grandma used to make. It’s the epitome of comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The combination of gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheese with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni makes this dish irresistible. I recall my grandmother’s kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of melting cheese and baking pasta, making everyone eagerly await dinner. This recipe captures that nostalgia and simplicity, delivering a dish that’s both rich and satisfying.

INGREDIENTS:

3 cups dry elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons salted butter

2 (370 mL/12 oz) cans evaporated milk

1/3 cup milk of choice

2 large eggs

1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 teaspoon paprika

DIRECTIONS:

Preparing the Macaroni

Cook the Macaroni:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water to enhance the flavor of the macaroni.

Add 3 cups of dry elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Cook the macaroni until it is al dente, following the package instructions for timing. Typically, this takes about 7-8 minutes.

Drain and Butter the Macaroni:

Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander and immediately return it to the pot while it’s still hot.

Add 4 tablespoons of salted butter to the hot macaroni. Stir until the butter is completely melted and the macaroni is evenly coated. This step not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together. Set the pot aside.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture

Mix the Milk and Eggs:

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cans of evaporated milk, 1/3 cup of your preferred milk, 2 large eggs, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic salt.

Whisk the mixture until it is fully combined and smooth. The evaporated milk adds a rich, creamy texture, while the eggs help to bind everything together.

Combine the Cheeses:

In a separate bowl, mix together 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. This combination of cheeses ensures a perfect melt and a deliciously cheesy flavor.

Assembling the Mac and Cheese

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the mac and cheese, allowing the top to become golden and slightly crispy while keeping the interior creamy.

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures that the mac and cheese won’t stick to the dish, making serving and cleanup easier.

Layer the Ingredients:

Start by spreading 1/3 of the buttered macaroni evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese mixture over the macaroni layer.

Repeat these layers two more times, using up all the macaroni and cheese. This layering ensures that every bite is filled with cheesy goodness.

Pour the Milk Mixture:

Slowly pour the milk and egg mixture over the layered macaroni and cheese. Make sure to pour it evenly to ensure that it permeates all layers of the dish.

Finally, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of paprika evenly over the top. The paprika adds a subtle warmth and a beautiful color to the finished dish.

Baking the Mac and Cheese

Bake the Dish:

Place the assembled mac and cheese in the preheated oven.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time.

Cool and Serve:

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Serve the Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy delight with your family and friends.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a unique flavor twist.

Spices and Herbs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added layer of flavor.

Meat Additions: For a heartier version, mix in cooked bacon, ham, or chicken before baking.

Vegetarian Option: This dish is already vegetarian, but you can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for a nutritious boost.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure that the evaporated milk and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy textures with the satisfying taste of melted cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks while delivering a dish that’s sure to impress.

The nostalgic value of this dish, with its classic flavors and comforting appeal, makes it a favorite for family meals and gatherings. The golden, bubbly top and creamy interior make every bite a delight. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this mac and cheese is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Making this dish brings a sense of joy and warmth to the kitchen, reminiscent of simpler times and cherished family moments. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy the delicious, heartwarming experience of Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese.