Introduction
Some recipes just feel like a hug—and this Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese is one of them. It’s rich, melty, comforting, and full of childhood nostalgia. Whether you’re feeding a holiday crowd or just craving something cozy, this recipe delivers that classic baked cheesy flavor you know and love.
With a combination of cheddar and mozzarella, a creamy egg-and-evaporated milk custard, and a hint of paprika on top, it bakes up bubbly, golden, and irresistibly gooey.
Why I Love This Recipe
This mac and cheese isn’t fussy or trendy—it’s comfort food in its purest form. You cook the noodles, stir in butter, layer with cheese, pour over a rich custard base, and bake. The result? That signature creamy-cheesy texture that holds up beautifully and tastes even better as leftovers.
It’s:
- Perfect for potlucks, weeknights, or Sunday dinners
- Family-friendly and crowd-approved
- Easily prepped ahead and reheated
- Customizable with add-ins like bacon, jalapeños, or a crunchy topping
Ingredients
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- 2 cans (12 oz each) evaporated milk
- ⅓ cup milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ tsp garlic salt
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
1. Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or spray a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Boil the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
3. Add the Butter
Stir butter into the warm pasta until melted and fully coated.
4. Make the Custard
In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt.
5. Mix the Cheese
In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
6. Layer the Mac and Cheese
Layer ⅓ of the pasta in your baking pan, followed by ⅓ of the cheese mix. Repeat twice more, ending with cheese.
7. Add the Custard
Pour the milk-egg mixture evenly over the macaroni layers. Sprinkle with paprika.
8. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Rest and Serve
Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture—pre-shredded blends often include anti-caking agents.
- Mix it up: Add crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or a breadcrumb topping for a flavor boost.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to cook while baking.
- Resting after baking helps it firm up and slice cleanly.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This old-fashioned mac and cheese is a meal on its own, but it also shines alongside:
- Easy Turkey Wings for the ultimate comfort combo
- Beer Cheese Dip on the side for double-cheese heaven
- Dorito Casserole for the perfect family feast
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fusion comfort meal
- Cheesy Hot Dip for a full-on party platter
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen it back up.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Comfort food fans, don’t miss these:
- Easy Turkey Wings – rich, juicy, and full of flavor
- Beer Cheese Dip – perfect for cheese lovers
- Dorito Casserole – hearty and irresistible
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – ideal for busy nights
- Cheesy Hot Dip – bold and indulgent
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a bubbling pan of Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese—the way it smells, the golden top, that first creamy bite. It’s simple, it’s nostalgic, and it never goes out of style. This version is as classic as it gets, and always hits the spot.
Try it out, and don’t forget to tag @ChefManiac with your cheesy creations!
— Jason Griffith, ChefManiac.com
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