Old Fashion Mac and Cheese Recipes
When you think of comfort food, old-fashioned mac and cheese likely comes to mind, with its creamy texture and simple ingredients. You might appreciate how these recipes emphasize the art of crafting a rich cheese sauce that perfectly coats each piece of macaroni. As you explore the history behind this beloved dish, you’ll discover how it has evolved, yet still holds a special place in many homes. What might surprise you, though, is the range of variations that can elevate this classic to new heights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you plunge into this old-fashioned mac and cheese recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a beloved classic.
This dish is simple and easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients like macaroni, butter, flour, and cheddar cheese. You don’t need advanced culinary skills, making it perfect for any cook. Plus, the use of heavy cream and cheese instead of a bechamel sauce contributes to its rich creaminess.
It’s also incredibly versatile; you can serve it as a main or side dish, and customize it with spices or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Plus, it’s ideal for gatherings; you can double the recipe or serve it in individual portions. Topping it with breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch, while broiling creates a crispy cheese layer that takes it to the next level.
History
Though it may seem like a simple comfort food today, mac and cheese has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. The first recorded recipe appeared in the 14th-century Italian cookbook “Liber de Coquina.”
As the dish evolved, variations like “Macrows” emerged in England. By the mid-1800s, a cookbook from Bern featured a recipe using Parmesan and Swiss Emmental cheese.
Thomas Jefferson popularized mac and cheese in America after he returned from Europe. He served it at his 1802 state dinner, showcasing his love for the dish, which was inspired by recipes brought back from France.
Kraft Foods introduced boxed mac and cheese in 1937, making it a staple during the Great Depression and World War II, thanks to its affordability and ease of preparation.
Recipe
Old Fashion Mac and Cheese Recipe
Indulging in a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness is one of life’s simple pleasures, and there’s nothing quite like a homemade mac and cheese to satisfy your cravings. This classic dish combines tender pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce, baked to perfection for a delightful golden crust on top. Made from scratch with basic ingredients, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether it’s a comforting family dinner or a side dish for a gathering, this old-fashioned mac and cheese recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite.
To achieve that ideal balance of creaminess and flavor, using high-quality ingredients is key, especially when it comes to the cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and adds an unparalleled richness to the dish. Coupled with the right seasonings and the perfect baking time, this recipe promises a comforting meal that brings back memories of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients:
– 400 g macaroni or elbow pasta
– 100 g salted butter
– 1 L whole milk
– 200 g cheddar or mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Paprika
– Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 2-4 minutes to guarantee the pasta is slightly undercooked. This will give you the perfect al dente texture, as it will continue cooking while baking.
Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with a knob of butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, prepare the cheese sauce. Melt the 100 g of salted butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in an equal amount of flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until it turns a light golden color.
Gradually whisk in the 1 L of whole milk, making certain there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the freshly grated cheese to the thickened milk mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.
Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for a little kick.
- Preheat your oven to 190C/375F. In a greased 9″x13″ baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly.
If you like, top with extra grated cheese or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- If you prefer a crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Once finished, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a hint of mustard to the cheese sauce.
Don’t forget to keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, and you want to make sure your mac and cheese doesn’t dry out. For the best results, enjoy the dish fresh from the oven while it’s still warm and creamy!
Final Thoughts
As you savor each bite of this old-fashioned mac and cheese, it’s clear that this dish is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting reminder of home and tradition.
With roots tracing back to 1769 and influences from Italian cookbooks, it evolved into a beloved American staple. Thomas Jefferson’s fondness further popularized it, especially during tough times like the Great Depression. The original recipe, which dates back to 1954 from a Betty Crocker cookbook, showcases the nostalgic connection many have to this dish during family gatherings.
Traditional recipes use simple ingredients, focusing on techniques like creating a roux and cooking noodles to al dente.
Today, while modern twists may add variety, the essence remains the same. Whether you prefer a classic version or a new interpretation, mac and cheese continues to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Enjoy making it a family favorite!
FAQ
Have questions about old-fashioned mac and cheese? You’re not alone! Common ingredients include macaroni noodles, unsalted butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese. You can mix up the cheese with options like gouda or fontina. For extra crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top. If you have dietary needs, gluten-free pasta works great too.
When cooking, aim for al dente macaroni to keep it firm. Making a roux is essential; whisk flour and butter over medium heat until smooth. Add cheese slowly for melting, and bake at 350°F to 400°F for 25 to 54 minutes. This classic comfort food is popular for family gatherings and holiday dinners.
Remember to preheat your oven and butter your baking dish to prevent sticking. Enjoy your delicious creation!
OLD FASHION MAC AND CHEESE RECIPES
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- - 400 g macaroni or elbow pasta
- - 100 g salted butter
- - 1 L whole milk
- - 200 g cheddar or mozzarella cheese freshly grated
- - Salt
- - Black pepper
- - Paprika
- - Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 2-4 minutes to guarantee the pasta is slightly undercooked. This will give you the perfect al dente texture, as it will continue cooking while baking.
- Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with a knob of butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, prepare the cheese sauce. Melt the 100 g of salted butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in an equal amount of flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the 1 L of whole milk, making certain there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the freshly grated cheese to the thickened milk mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for a little kick.
- Preheat your oven to 190C/375F. In a greased 9"x13" baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly.
- If you like, top with extra grated cheese or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- If you prefer a crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Once finished, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
