Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard (optional)
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Optional Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dry mustard.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is well coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- If using the topping, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy topping if desired.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Fried chicken
- BBQ ribs
- Meatloaf
- Grilled steak
- Roasted vegetables
- Pulled pork
- Garden salad
Tips
- Always shred your own cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Add cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8