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Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese

This Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese is a creamy, cheesy classic with a crispy breadcrumb topping—comfort food at its finest!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups milk whole milk recommended for creaminess
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 slices turkey bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes until golden and bubbling but not browned.
  • Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook and whisk until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Reduce heat to low and add shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir gently until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated. Fold in crumbled turkey bacon if using.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes until breadcrumbs are golden brown and mac and cheese is bubbling around the edges.
  • Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking Dish

Notes

  • Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce; avoid skim milk.
  • Don’t skip the roux step for a smooth, thick cheese sauce.
  • Grate cheese fresh for better melting and flavor.
  • Mix melted butter into breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
  • Cover with foil during first 15 minutes of baking to avoid dry crust, then uncover to brown.