Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, beloved by children and adults alike. This classic recipe for Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. It combines rich cheeses and evaporated milk to create a luscious sauce that coats every piece of macaroni. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks, this mac and cheese will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 4 Tbsp salted butter
- 2 (370 mL/12 oz) cans evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup milk of choice (whole milk, 2%, or even a non-dairy milk)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 tsp garlic salt
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add the dry elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, reduce the heat to low and slowly add the evaporated milk and regular milk, stirring continuously.
- In a small bowl, beat the 2 large eggs and then whisk them into the milk mixture. Continue to stir to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Add the 1/4 teaspoon of garlic salt and 1 teaspoon of paprika to the mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Incorporate the Cheeses:
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese to the milk mixture, stirring constantly until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
- Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the macaroni is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Bake the Mac and Cheese (Optional):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheese and a bit of paprika on top for an extra cheesy and slightly spicy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Selection: For the best flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese. The sharper the cheese, the more pronounced the flavor will be. You can also mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Avoid Pre-Shredded Cheese: For a smoother sauce, grate the cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce and when baked.
- Stir Constantly: When making the cheese sauce, stir constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling and to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Cook and crumble some bacon and mix it into the macaroni and cheese before baking.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Stir in some steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed spinach for a veggie-packed version.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 33g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 20g
FAQ:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze mac and cheese? A: Yes, mac and cheese can be frozen. Prepare the dish, let it cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for evaporated milk? A: If you don’t have evaporated milk, you can use an equal amount of whole milk or half-and-half. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure that your evaporated milk and cheese are gluten-free.
Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked macaroni, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a main course, this mac and cheese is the epitome of homemade goodness. Enjoy this delightful recipe with your loved ones and savor the rich flavors and comforting textures.
