Old Fashioned Macaroni
Indulge in the comforting, nostalgic flavors of Old Fashioned Macaroni—a baked macaroni and cheese recipe that delivers creamy goodness and a satisfyingly crispy topping. Perfectly al dente elbow macaroni is enveloped in a velvety homemade cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar, a hint of butter, and a rich roux base. Topped with golden breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and a sprinkle of paprika, this oven-baked classic transforms into a bubbling, golden masterpiece. Ready in just under an hour, this easy-to-make dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave a hearty, timeless favorite. Serve warm and watch it become everyone’s go-to comfort food!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2.5 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, ground
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook, stirring regularly, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl, ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated.
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni. For extra flavor and visual appeal, lightly sprinkle paprika on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Old Fashioned Macaroni!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2942 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 154.4 g | 198% | |
| Saturated Fat | 92.4 g | 462% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 474 mg | 158% | |
| Sodium | 6079 mg | 264% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 253.0 g | 92% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.4 g | 37% | |
| Total Sugars | 41.1 g | ||
| Protein | 137.9 g | 276% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.1 mcg | 41% | |
| Calcium | 3062 mg | 236% | |
| Iron | 12.7 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 1315 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
