Here’s a classic, creamy, baked “Good Ole Fashion” Mac and Cheese — no fancy ingredients, just old-school comfort food.
🧀 Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese
🛒 Ingredients
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450 g (1 lb) elbow macaroni
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4 tbsp butter
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4 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 ½ cups whole milk (warm)
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½ cup heavy cream (optional but recommended)
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3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
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1 cup mozzarella (optional for extra melt)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Cheese Sauce
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Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes (don’t brown it).
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Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream.
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Simmer until thick (about 5 minutes).
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Lower heat and stir in cheese gradually.
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Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
3️⃣ Combine
Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
4️⃣ Bake (Optional but Classic)
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Pour into a buttered baking dish.
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Sprinkle extra cheese on top.
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Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
For extra crunch, add buttered breadcrumbs on top before baking.
🔥 Pro Tips
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Always shred your own cheese (pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly).
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Use sharp cheddar for strong flavor.
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Don’t overcook the pasta — it keeps cooking in the oven.
If you want, I can also give you:
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Southern-style baked version
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Creamy stovetop version
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Smoked mac and cheese
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Healthier / weight-loss version 😉