Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese, a timeless comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich flavor and gooey texture, this mac and cheese will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk (whole milk is best for creaminess)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for tang)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and flavor)