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Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hold a candle to the creamy and rich goodness of Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese. This classic dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings, where delicious scents waft from the kitchen, and everyone eagerly awaits the first gooey bite. Did you know that macaroni and cheese dates back to the 1700s? It has evolved over the years into countless variations, but the basic combination of pasta and cheese remains a beloved staple in households across America. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or discovering this dish for the first time, there’s something undeniably special about sinking your fork into a bubbling, cheesy casserole. With its quick preparation and family-friendly appeal, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy our creamy Pasta Alfredo that also has that heavenly cheesy richness! So grab your apron and get ready to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 370 mL/12 oz cans evaporated milk
  • 1/3 cup milk of choice
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 4 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  • Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and return it to the pot.
  • Add Butter: Stir in the salted butter into the drained macaroni until it is melted. Set aside while you prepare the cheese and milk mixture.
  • Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt until fully combined.
  • Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
  • Layer the Dish: In the prepared baking pan, start by layering 1/3 of the macaroni, followed by 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used.
  • Pour Milk Mixture: Pour the combined milk mixture evenly over the top of your layered macaroni and cheese.
  • Sprinkle and Bake: Sprinkle the top generously with paprika. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  • And there you have it—your Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese is ready to serve!
  • What to Serve Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese With
  • To elevate your meal, consider serving your Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese with a refreshing side salad drizzled with vinaigrette. Alternatively, roasted vegetables bring a colorful and nutritious contrast to the creamy pasta. You might also enjoy pairing it with grilled chicken or a tangy barbecue dish for a delightful combination of flavors that satisfies all.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese
  • Cheese Choices: While cheddar and mozzarella are traditional, experimenting with different cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda can transform the flavor profile.
  • Butter Substitutes: If you want to cut back on calories, consider using a light butter or even olive oil.
  • Avoiding Clumps: Make sure the cheeses are at room temperature before mixing to avoid clumping.
  • Extra Flavor: Try adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or even a sprinkle of your favorite herbs to customize your Mac and Cheese further.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • To store leftovers of your Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The dish can remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For longer preservation, you can freeze it for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk during reheating can help retain that creamy texture!
  • Now that you're armed with all the knowledge you need, it's time to create your own Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese masterpiece. Enjoy the simplicity, flavor, and love that this dish brings to the table!