Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese

            Macaroni and Cheese is a family favorite for millions of families. This dish is baked and is super cheesy. Of course we layer the cheeses to make it even better. This is a comforting dish that does not require too much work. This dish also makes a perfect side to bring to family gatherings, Holiday buffets, potlucks or church gatherings.

            Macaroni and cheese is one of those meals that is hard to mess up. That is because there is more than one way to make it. Each person likely does things slightly different and it turns out no matter how it is made.

With this dish, you could add different ingredients, to make it a one pot meal. You can use different shaped pastas.

            I have to tell you that this recipe is more authentic when it comes to old fashioned and classic dishes. This one goes way back, of course I made a few changes to make this one easier, but the flavor comes out the same.

Frequently Asked Questions:

            Can I cook this on the stove top instead of baking it?

You certainly could. There would be no need to layer the cheeses if you are cooking on top of the stove.

            Why such a low baking temp?

This matters on how people prefer the dish. If you want it quicker, then the heat should be a little warmer. I generally do 350* and then bake for half an hour. I will also broil for a couple of minutes to get that brown crust on top. To me that is what makes this perfect.

            Can I make this ahead of time?

You can. Prepare as you would normally, but do not bake it. You should just cover it tightly and then place it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before baking, allow the dish to sit on the counter for 30 minutes.

What do you need to make Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese

            16 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions.

            5 tbsp butter, unsalted

            ¼ cup all purpose flour

            1 ¼ tsp ground mustard

            2 cups milk, whole or 2%

            1 ½ cup half and half cream

            4 cups Cheddar Cheese

            Salt and pepper to taste

Crumb Topping:

            ½ cup Panko bread crumbs

            2 tbsp butter, unsalted and melted

How to make Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese

FIRST STEP:

Place the butter in a saucepan on medium heat.

Add the flour to the melted butter and stir for 1 minute

SECOND STEP:

Slowly add in the milk and the half and half, ground mustard, salt and pepper, whisking as you add each

Remove from the heat and add in the shredded cheese a little at a time.

Continue stirring as you add the cheese

THIRD STEP:

Drain and rinse the elbow macaroni and place back into baking dish

Carefully pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni

FOURTH STEP:

Stir to mix well

Mix the ingredients for the topping in a separate bowl and sprinkle on top of the macaroni and cheese

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil

FIFTH STEP:

Bake at 350* for 40 to 45 minutes

Remove the foil from the dish and return to the oven to broil the top for a minute or two.

Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

YUM!