When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a classic like Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese. This recipe is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. The combination of rich evaporated milk, two types of cheeses, and a hint of paprika gives this dish an unforgettable flavor. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving something cozy, this homemade mac and cheese will take you back to simpler times.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Comfort: A traditional mac and cheese that’s rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy.
Two Kinds of Cheese: The cheddar gives it a sharp, bold flavor, while the mozzarella makes it extra gooey.
Evaporated Milk Magic: This ingredient gives the sauce a silky texture and rich flavor, without being heavy.

Ingredients for Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese

3 cups dry elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta for soaking up all that creamy cheese sauce.
4 Tbsp salted butter: Adds richness and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk: The secret to a velvety, smooth cheese sauce.
1/3 cup milk of choice: Helps thin the sauce just a bit for the perfect consistency.
2 large eggs: Adds creaminess and helps bind everything together.
1/4 tsp garlic salt: A little seasoning to enhance the flavors.
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The backbone of any good mac and cheese, providing a sharp and creamy flavor.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For extra gooeyness.
1 tsp paprika: Sprinkled on top for flavor and a pop of color.

How to Make Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 3 cups dry elbow macaroni and cook until it’s al dente, about 7-8 minutes. You want the pasta to still have a bit of bite since it will continue cooking in the oven.

Drain the macaroni, then return it to the pot. Stir in 4 tablespoons of salted butter until it’s fully melted and the pasta is coated. Set aside while you prepare the cheese and milk mixtures.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese and Milk Mixtures

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cans of evaporated milk, 1/3 cup milk of choice, 2 large eggs, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt until everything is smooth and combined. This mixture will be poured over the layered macaroni and cheese to create that deliciously creamy texture.

In a separate bowl, mix together 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese and 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. This cheesy blend is what will make the mac and cheese ooey-gooey and flavorful.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking.

Step 4: Layer the Macaroni and Cheese

To build your mac and cheese, start by layering 1/3 of the cooked macaroni into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta. Repeat this process two more times, creating layers of pasta and cheese.

Once all the pasta and cheese are layered, pour the milk mixture evenly over the top, ensuring it seeps into all the nooks and crannies of the dish.

Step 5: Add Paprika and Bake

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of paprika evenly over the top of the casserole. This adds a subtle warmth and a beautiful color to the finished dish.

Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, and it’s much easier to cut into neat portions.

Enjoy your delicious, Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese!

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni to al dente ensures it won’t get mushy as it bakes.
Layering Is Key: Layering the pasta and cheese allows for an even distribution of gooeyness in every bite.
Freshly Grated Cheese: Always grate your cheese fresh. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Variations to Try

Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits between the layers for an extra indulgent twist.
Spicy Mac and Cheese: Mix in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Three-Cheese Mac: Try adding a third cheese like gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor complexity.

Storing and Reheatin

Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. With its layers of tender pasta, melted cheese, and a creamy, savory sauce, it’s a family favorite that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it at a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this classic recipe is always a hit.