Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Made Irresistible

Name: Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Made Irresistible
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp ground mustard (optional); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella for topping

May 15, 2025December 3, 2024 by Chef Jennifer

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Welcome to Recipes2Gather, where comfort food gets the spotlight it deserves! Today, we’re bringing back a beloved American classic that never goes out of style: Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese. If you’re craving a creamy, golden-topped casserole that hugs your taste buds with cheesy goodness, you’re in the right place.

This recipe takes you back to the basics, using simple ingredients to create rich, baked perfection. With every spoonful, you’ll get tender pasta, a velvety cheese sauce, and a slightly crispy, golden top that makes this dish so satisfying. This dish goes beyond a simple side—it’s comfort food that gets the whole crew gathered around for seconds.

So whether you’re feeding the family, planning your Sunday supper, or just looking to relive your favorite comfort food memories, this mac and cheese delivers every single time.

Key Benefits

Why does this old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese stand the test of time? It’s more than nostalgia—it’s all about real flavor, ease, and versatility:

Homemade Comfort: This is the kind of meal that makes a house feel like home. With real cheese and elbow macaroni, it’s simple yet full of that comforting, cozy flavor you can’t get from a box.
Easy Ingredients, Big Flavor: You likely have everything you need in your fridge or pantry right now. Butter, milk, cheese, pasta—it’s nothing fancy, but it turns into something truly magical.
Customizable Cheese Blend: While classic cheddar is the go-to, you can mix things up with mozzarella, gouda, or even a little smoked provolone for depth. Want a spicy twist? Add pepper jack or a pinch of cayenne.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a holiday, a potluck, or just an average Wednesday, this dish never disappoints. Everyone—from picky kids to hungry adults—goes back for seconds.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it earlier in the day, refrigerate it, and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It makes dinner planning a breeze.

For a flavorful twist on classic cheese recipes, check out our pepper jack cheese guide—it’s perfect for leveling up your mac!

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This recipe is built around a few humble pantry staples that, when combined, turn into pure comfort food gold. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon ground mustard (optional, but recommended)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (for topping)

Ingredient Notes:

Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto all that cheesy sauce.
Cheese: Use a sharp cheddar for bold flavor. Mix in other cheeses if you want a gooier or smokier profile.
Cream: The combo of milk and cream makes the sauce extra rich without being heavy.
Parmesan Topping: Adds a salty, crispy finish when baked.

Looking to experiment with cheese even more? Our post on white cheddar cheese flavor breaks it down deliciously.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Get ready to turn your kitchen into a comfort food haven with these easy steps:

Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 375°F and butter a 9×13 baking dish.
Pasta Time: Cook the macaroni until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—don’t overdo it. Drain and set aside.
Start the Sauce: Melt the butter in a pan, stir in the flour, and let it cook for a couple minutes to smooth out that floury flavor.
Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer, stirring now and then, until it gets thick and creamy—usually around five minutes.
Stir in the Cheese: Remove from heat and add shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine with Pasta: Pour cheese sauce over the drained macaroni and stir to coat evenly.
Layer and Top: Pour everything into the baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan and extra cheddar or mozzarella on top.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned and bubbly. Let it sit for a few minutes so everything sets before you serve it up.

Try serving it with our candied yams—they add the perfect mix of sweetness and savory to round out the meal.

Helpful Hints and Tasty Twists for Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

Here’s how to make this classic even more crave-worthy, with expert-level tweaks that take it to the next level.

Pro Tips:

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Undercook it slightly so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
Freshly Shred the Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can be waxy and won’t melt as well. Go for blocks!
Use a Cast Iron Skillet: You can cook the sauce and bake the mac in the same pan for easy cleanup.
Let It Rest: Give it 5–10 minutes after baking to firm up before serving.

Variations:

Spicy Kick: Stir in chopped jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Meaty Additions: Add cooked bacon, ham, or even pulled pork for a heartier version.
Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked broccoli or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Crunchy Topping: Toss some breadcrumbs in melted butter and scatter them over the dish before it hits the oven.

Craving even more cheesy indulgence? Don’t miss our macaroni and cheese bowl—a fully loaded version that’s perfect for dinner.

Delicious Ways to Dish Out Your Baked Mac and Cheese

This dish is incredibly versatile, whether you’re serving it as a side or letting it shine as the star of the meal.

As a Main Dish: Make it a full dinner by pairing your mac and cheese with a green salad and some roasted vegetables on the side.
Holiday Favorite: A perfect fit next to turkey, ham, or roasted chicken on any celebration table.
Kids’ Favorite Dinner: Add hot dogs or chicken nuggets on the side—kids will devour every bite.
With Southern Flair: Pair it with collard greens and cornbread for a soulful, down-home dinner.
Buffet-Ready: Great for potlucks or cookouts—just keep it warm in a slow cooker!

Pair it with our classic egg salad ideas for a comforting spread full of familiar flavors.

Trasted Resources for Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Learn how to balance cheese flavors in mac and cheese with this great guide from Serious Eats.
For health-conscious tweaks, Healthline breaks down ways to make it a bit lighter without losing flavor.
Bon Appétit offers chef-approved tips for perfect baked mac and cheese.
The Kitchn shares insight on choosing the right pasta shapes for cheese dishes here.

Conclusion

This baked mac and cheese isn’t just food—it’s a throwback to good times, family dinners, and cozy comfort you’ll always come back to. With its creamy interior and crisp, cheesy topping, this version brings everything you love about the classic to the table, without fuss or shortcuts.

At Recipes2Gather.com, we’re all about keeping things simple, warm, and totally satisfying. This recipe honors those values while delivering the kind of flavor that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making it for yourself, this mac and cheese is always a win.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 extra minutes if it’s cold.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge, they’ll keep well for about four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Absolutely. Freeze before baking or after—it reheats beautifully. Use within 2–3 months.

What if I don’t have cream?

Using just milk works too, though the sauce might turn out a little less thick and rich. Try whole milk for a richer result.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Use a blend of cheeses and don’t overbake. Stirring in a little cream cheese or sour cream also works wonders.

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