There’s something timeless about a bubbling dish of homemade macaroni and cheese, golden on top and creamy underneath. It’s the kind of comfort food that never goes out of style — warm, cheesy, and filled with nostalgia. Every time I make this recipe, it reminds me of Sunday suppers and cozy dinners around the family table.
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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy meets crunchy: Silky-smooth cheese sauce under a perfectly baked golden crust.
- Family tradition: Inspired by the old-fashioned mac your mom or grandma made.
- Simple ingredients: No fancy tricks, just pantry staples and real cheese.
- Crowd-pleaser: A universal favorite — from kids to grandparents.
- Versatile: Serve as a side or make it the star of the meal.
🧀 What It Tastes Like
Every forkful brings creamy, cheesy bliss. The sharp cheddar adds tang, the mozzarella adds melt, and the evaporated milk and eggs create that old-school baked custard texture you just can’t get from boxed versions. Sprinkle on a touch of paprika or crushed crackers, and you’ve got cozy perfection in every bite.
🛒 Ingredients
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 4 Tbsp salted butter
- 2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
- ⅓ cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ tsp garlic salt
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp paprika (for color and flavor)
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk for blending milk mixture
- Cheese grater
🔄 Substitutions & Additions
- Cheese swaps: Try Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
- Add heat: Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Crunchy topping: Use crushed Ritz or saltine crackers instead of paprika.
- Upgrade it: Mix in bacon bits, ham, or caramelized onions for extra richness.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
- Make the milk mixture: In a bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt until smooth.
- Layer it up: In the baking dish, layer half the pasta, half the cheeses, then pour half the milk mixture over it. Repeat with remaining pasta, cheese, and milk mixture.
- Add topping: Sprinkle paprika (or crushed crackers) on top.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool slightly and serve — creamy, cheesy, nostalgic perfection!
🧊 Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F until bubbly (or microwave for a quick fix).
🧡 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fried chicken, meatloaf, or BBQ ribs for the ultimate comfort dinner.
- Add a side of collard greens or green beans for a true Southern touch.
- Serve with a simple garden salad to balance out the richness.
🏡 A Taste of Home
This Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is more than just a recipe — it’s a piece of family history. The kind of dish that turns gatherings into memories and reminds you that the simplest ingredients often make the most comforting meals.
Whether you’re making it for a potluck, a holiday, or just because, this mac and cheese will make everyone at the table feel right at home. 🧡
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