Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of mac and cheese, and this Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe brings that warmth right to your table. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with just the right amount of seasoning, it’s a classic dish that never goes out of style. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a side for your next family gathering, this recipe hits all the right notes. Made with sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, a creamy béchamel sauce, and topped off with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s everything you want in a mac and cheese and more. Plus, the option to add turkey bacon lends a delightful savory crunch that complements the smooth cheese sauce perfectly.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What sets this Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe apart is its perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures paired with deep, rich flavors. The blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses creates a luscious sauce that’s flavorful but not overly sharp, appealing to all ages. The béchamel-style sauce thickened with flour and butter ensures the cheese clings beautifully to every elbow macaroni, making each bite utterly satisfying.

If you love a little extra savoriness, the addition of turkey bacon introduces a smoky, meaty flavor that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Not to mention, the breadcrumb topping adds a golden, crispy finish, providing contrast to the creamy pasta underneath. This recipe is versatile, easy to follow, and guarantees a crowd-pleaser every single time. It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any season and pairs wonderfully with fresh greens or your favorite roasted veggies.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

How To Make Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. This step is crucial as it thickens the sauce and prevents lumps.

Step 3: Add the Milk and Seasonings

Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These spices enhance the flavor and add a subtle depth to the sauce.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses a handful at a time. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni back into the saucepan and gently stir to coat every piece with the cheesy sauce. If using turkey bacon, fold it in now for that added savory flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy finish.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the sauce is bubbly around the edges. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melt and better flavor.
• Be patient when making the roux; cooking the flour and butter mixture properly will prevent a raw flour taste and ensure a silky sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta initially—al dente is key, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• For an extra crispy topping, toss the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese.
• Make sure to stir the cheese sauce continuously when adding cheese to avoid clumping or burning.
• Try using whole milk for a richer sauce, but 2% milk works perfectly fine if you prefer a lighter option.
• Consider pairing this mac and cheese with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• This recipe pairs wonderfully with a good Baked Ziti Recipe when feeding a larger crowd or wanting variety.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for some heat.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers before baking.
• Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella with gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Protein Options: Instead of turkey bacon, try cooked halal chicken sausage or ground turkey for more protein.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch for thickening.
• Creamier Texture: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream into the sauce before combining with pasta.
• Crunchier Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or panko for extra crunch.

How to Store Leftovers

To store your Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and warm it up gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as usual.

FAQ

Can I make this mac and cheese without baking it?

Absolutely! You can skip the baking step and enjoy the mac and cheese right after combining the pasta with the cheese sauce. It will be creamy and delicious without the crispy breadcrumb topping.

What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

You can substitute turkey bacon with halal chicken sausage, ground turkey, or even omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to cook the protein fully before adding it to the mac and cheese.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will differ slightly from the traditional version.

How do I get the perfect breadcrumb topping?

For the best topping, toss breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling on top. This helps them brown evenly and adds extra flavor and crunch during baking.

Conclusion

This Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe is a timeless classic that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful crunchy topping. Whether you keep it simple or add your favorite mix-ins like turkey bacon or veggies, this dish satisfies every craving. With its easy-to-follow steps and flexible variations, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Next time you want a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe will be your go-to. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

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