Creamy Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese Made Easy

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9 from 4,300 reviews )
📸 1,000+ happy home cook photos | 🍽️ Updated June 2025

Nothing comforts the soul like a bubbling, golden dish of Creamy Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese. This recipe brings you back to grandma’s kitchen, where everything was made with love, butter, and a little extra cheese. It’s creamy, baked to perfection, and exactly what your cravings and memories ordered.

📌 Quick Glance – Old School Baked Mac and Cheese

• ⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes
• 🕒 Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• 🍽️ Servings: 6–8
• 🧑‍🍳 Skill Level: Beginner
• 🧀 Mood: Cozy, cheesy, nostalgic

⬇️ Jump Ahead:

• What You’ll Need
• How to Make Classic Mac and Cheese
• Helpful Tips & Variations
• What Real Home Cooks Say
• FAQ – Mac & Cheese Questions Answered

🛒 What You’ll Need – Simple Pantry & Dairy Favorites

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk (warm)
• 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for color)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Classic Mac and Cheese

🧀 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil Pasta:
   Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a large saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly pour in warm milk, whisking until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the Cheese:
   Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Combine & Bake:
   Mix pasta with cheese sauce. Pour into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if using.
5. Bake:
   Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve & Savor:
   Let cool slightly, then dive in with a spoon (or straight from the pan—no judgment).

✨ Helpful Tips & Variations

• Use evaporated milk for an even creamier texture.
• Add a touch of Dijon mustard or hot sauce to deepen the flavor.
• Want a crunchy top? Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling.
• Try a cheese blend: gouda, gruyère, or fontina for a gourmet twist.

📝 Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese

This baked mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Made with a simple roux and sharp cheddar cheese, it’s the ultimate nostalgic comfort dish — perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz elbow macaroni about 2 cups dry
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk whole or 2%
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder optional
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs optional topping
• 1 tbsp melted butter if using breadcrumbs

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Casserole dish
• Mixing spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Slowly whisk in milk. Continue to stir until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well and pour into prepared baking dish.
7. (Optional) Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add cooked bacon, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes for a twist.

For extra creaminess, mix in ½ cup sour cream or evaporated milk.

Use a cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, gruyère) for more depth of flavor.

❓ FAQ – Mac & Cheese Questions Answered

check also our:

• Easy made Crock Pot Pizza Casserole
• Easy made Cinnamon-Sugar Crescent Roll Pizza