Name: Easy Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 400 g macaroni pasta; 100 g salted butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 50 g plain flour; 1 L milk; 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika; 200 g cheddar cheese, grated; 100 g mozzarella cheese, grated; 50 g cheddar cheese, grated; 150 g mozzarella cheese, grated or torn

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 2 reviews

There is something wonderfully nostalgic and comforting about an Easy Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe that brings warmth to the heart and table. This classic dish blends creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked macaroni, baked to golden, bubbling perfection. It’s that familiar, indulgent taste that reminds you of home-cooked magic, made with simple ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a dish everyone will love.

Ingredients You'll Need

A black cast iron pan filled with macaroni and cheese showing two layers: a creamy yellow cheese sauce covering elbow macaroni at the bottom and a top layer of golden brown melted cheese with some darker browned spots, creating a bubbly texture; a wooden spoon is partially submerged in the mac and cheese on the right side, stirring the dish, all set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using straightforward ingredients that are essential in creating the rich taste and luscious texture of baked macaroni and cheese. Each component plays a key role, from the pasta to the blend of cheeses, crafting a dish that’s both creamy and satisfyingly gooey with a delightful crust.

400 g macaroni pasta: Choose classic elbow macaroni for that perfect bite and sauce hold.
100 g salted butter: Adds richness and helps form the silky roux base of the sauce.
2 garlic cloves minced: Infuses the sauce with a subtle savory depth.
50 g plain flour: Thickens the béchamel into a smooth, creamy cheese sauce.
1 L milk: The creamy foundation that makes the sauce dreamy and luscious.
1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika: Offers a gentle smoky warmth and gorgeous color.
200 g cheddar grated: Sharp and flavorful, it melts beautifully into the sauce.
100 g mozzarella grated: Brings a stretchy, milky texture to every bite.
For the topping – 50 g cheddar grated: Adds extra cheesy punch on top.
And 150 g mozzarella grated or torn: Creates a golden, bubbling crust under the grill.

How to Make Easy Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni Pasta

Start by cooking your macaroni pasta in boiling salted water, but be careful not to overcook. Cook the macaroni for 2-4 minutes less than the packet suggests because it will finish cooking in the oven. Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with a knob of butter to keep the pieces separate and silky.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base

Place an ovenproof pan over medium heat and melt the salted butter. Add the minced garlic and let it infuse its lovely aroma before whisking in the flour. This combination will create the roux, which is crucial for thickening the sauce. Slowly pour in the milk in stages, whisking constantly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy béchamel. Add the smoked paprika and let the sauce gently simmer for about five minutes until it thickens just right.

Step 3: Incorporate the Cheeses

Lower the heat and gradually add the grated cheddar and mozzarella to the sauce, stirring until it’s luxuriously smooth and irresistibly cheesy. Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch more paprika if you like, making sure every spoonful will be packed with flavor.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix your cooked macaroni into the creamy cheese sauce until every piece is well coated. Spread the mixture evenly in your ovenproof pan to prepare for baking.

Step 5: Add Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and torn or grated mozzarella generously over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 190C (375F) for 20 minutes. To finish, place the dish under the grill for 2 to 5 minutes until the crust is golden-brown and bubbling, giving it that irresistible irresistible look and texture.

How to Serve Easy Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

A close-up image of a spoon lifting a portion of macaroni and cheese from a black skillet, showing three layers: the top layer is melted, creamy light yellow cheese with scattered black pepper flecks; beneath it, small curved pasta shells coated in rich, creamy cheese sauce with some browned spots; and at the bottom, the dark black iron skillet with some melted cheese spilling over the edge. The cheese stretches from the skillet to the spoon, creating long, thin strands. The background has a soft focus with a warm light tone and a white marbled surface below the skillet. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper makes a simple yet lovely garnish. For a little extra crunch, you can add toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits on top, turning this classic into something a bit more special.

Side Dishes

This cheesy delight pairs beautifully with fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for a bit of balance. The creamy richness of the baked macaroni and cheese contrasts so well with light, crisp sides that brighten the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Easy Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for an impressive presentation. You could even layer leftover mac and cheese with grilled chicken or roasted veggies in a casserole for a hearty twist that’s perfect for family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your mac and cheese has cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and store it in the fridge for up to three days. This makes for a perfect quick meal any time you need a cheesy craving fix.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the mac and cheese in properly labeled airtight containers for up to three months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, preserving that just-baked deliciousness.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture and warm gently either on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally until it’s piping hot and as comforting as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use penne, rigatoni, or other short pasta shapes that hold sauce well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just make sure the cheeses you use are suitable for vegetarians.

Can I add other cheeses besides cheddar and mozzarella?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in gouda, gruyere, or parmesan to add different flavor notes and richness.

What if I don’t have an ovenproof pan?

You can make the cheese sauce in a regular saucepan and then transfer the combined pasta and sauce to a baking dish for baking and grilling.

How do I get the topping extra crispy?

Try adding a layer of finely crushed breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top before baking for a wonderful crunchy finish.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is pure comfort on a plate—simple, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or any time you crave a familiar classic. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share the cheesy love with those around your table!