Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese – Easy and Great Tasting!
This Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness! Made with a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this dish delivers a smooth, velvety sauce that perfectly coats every bite of pasta. Whether you prefer it stovetop-style for extra creaminess or baked with a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping, this homemade mac and cheese is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a side dish for BBQs and holiday meals!
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Notes
- Cheese Selection: Always use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for the smoothest sauce.
- Creamy vs. Baked: If you love a super creamy mac and cheese, serve it straight from the stovetop. For a crispy, golden top, bake it with panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
- Pasta Tip: Cook your elbow macaroni al dente to prevent mushy pasta after mixing with the cheese sauce.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne, or Dijon mustard for extra depth.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dish up to 2 days in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk on the stovetop or in the microwave for the best texture.