Old Fashioned Macaroni & Cheese

This classic Old Fashioned Macaroni & Cheese delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. Featuring tender elbow macaroni smothered in a rich, velvety cheddar cheese sauce made from scratch, this dish is pure indulgence. The addition of a touch of dry mustard and hot pepper sauce adds a subtle warmth that cuts through the richness. Baked until bubbly and topped with extra cheese, it offers a perfect contrast between the creamy interior and the slightly toasted exterior. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or when you need a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Cooking Method: Baking, Boiling

Cuisine: American

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 12

Calories: 258.3

Dietary: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Old Fashioned Macaroni & Cheese delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. Featuring tender elbow macaroni smothered in a rich, velvety cheddar cheese sauce made from scratch, this dish is pure indulgence. The addition of a touch of dry mustard and hot pepper sauce adds a subtle warmth that cuts through the richness. Baked until bubbly and topped with extra cheese, it offers a perfect contrast between the creamy interior and the slightly toasted exterior. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or when you need a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups Uncooked elbow macaroni
1/4 cup Butter
1/4 cup Flour
1 tsp Salt
3/4 tsp Dry mustard
1/2 tsp Pepper
Few dashes Hot pepper sauce
3 1/2 cups Milk
5 cups (20 oz.) Shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Directions

1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2
Cook macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until almost tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3
Meanwhile, in a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
4
Stir in the flour, salt, dry mustard, pepper, and hot pepper sauce. Cook and stir for about 1 minute until smooth.
5
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
6
Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat.
8
Pour the mixture into an ungreased 13x9x2 inch baking dish.
9
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes or until bubbly.
10
Remove foil, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of cheese, and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 258.3kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 1.9g3%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 0.0mg0%
Total Carbohydrate 54.6g19%
Dietary Fiber 3.6g15%
Sugars 0.6g
Protein 9.2g19%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

You can substitute sharp cheddar with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Ensure the cheese sauce is thick enough before adding the pasta so the final dish isn't too runny.

Keywords: macaroni, cheese, cheddar, baked, comfort food, classic, creamy, dinner, easy, family, homemade, pasta, side dish, traditional

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/old-fashioned-macaroni-cheese-2/