Old fashioned macaroni and cheese is a timeless comfort food that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights. Unlike the quick, creamy stovetop versions popular today, the old-fashioned recipe is baked, rich, and has a delightful golden crust. If you want to make this classic dish that has been loved for generations, here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect old fashioned macaroni and cheese.
What Makes Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese Special?
Old fashioned macaroni and cheese stands out because it uses a baked cheese sauce that often includes eggs, which helps create a custardy texture. It’s usually made with simple ingredients like elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, milk, butter, and sometimes a topping of breadcrumbs or extra cheese for that irresistible crust. This recipe is different from the quick stovetop versions because it’s baked slowly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the top to become golden and slightly crispy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a classic ingredient list for about 6 servings:
– 8 ounces (about 2 cups) uncooked elbow macaroni (or 4 cups cooked)
– 2 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
– 1¼ cups sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
– 3 cups milk
– 2 eggs, beaten
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: paprika for sprinkling on top
– Optional: buttered breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
You can adjust the cheese types or add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy. Some recipes also mix in Swiss or mozzarella for added creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Cook the Macaroni
Boil the macaroni in salted water until just tender (al dente), then drain it well. You want it cooked but still firm since it will bake again.
3. Combine Macaroni with Butter and Cheese
In a large bowl or directly in a greased baking dish, mix the cooked macaroni with butter pieces, cubed or shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. The butter will melt into the pasta, and the cheese will begin to soften.
4. Mix Eggs and Milk
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk. This mixture will create a rich, custard-like sauce when baked.
5. Pour Over Macaroni
Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese mixture in the baking dish. This helps bind everything together and creates a creamy texture.
6. Add Toppings (Optional)
Sprinkle paprika over the top for color and flavor. If you like a crunchy topping, scatter buttered breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top.
7. Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the inside creamy.
8. Cool and Serve
Let the macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
– Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, tangy flavor that’s classic to this dish.
– Don’t skip the eggs; they give the dish that old-fashioned custardy texture.
– Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.
– Add a crunchy topping like breadcrumbs or extra cheese for texture contrast.
– Be patient with baking; the slow heat melds flavors and creates the perfect crust.
– Experiment with cheese blends like adding Swiss or mozzarella for creaminess and depth.
– Season well with salt and pepper, and a pinch of paprika or cayenne for warmth.
Variations to Try
– Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the milk mixture.
– Cheese Mix: Combine cheddar with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a gourmet twist.
– Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the egg and milk mixture.
– Garlic Butter: Sauté minced garlic in butter before mixing with pasta for extra flavor.
– Toppings: Use crushed crackers, fried onions, or even crispy bacon bits for a fun crunch.
Old fashioned macaroni and cheese is a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. With its creamy texture, sharp cheese flavor, and golden baked crust, it’s a recipe that never goes out of style and always brings smiles to the dinner table. Enjoy making this classic dish that’s been cherished for decades!
Savor the warm, cheesy goodness of old fashioned macaroni and cheese—a true comfort food classic that feels like a hug in a bowl.