This Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese is packed with white cheddar, mild cheddar, mozzarella, and American cheese, baked to golden perfection for the ultimate comfort food.
If I had to pick one dish that instantly transports me back to childhood, it’s Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese. Not the boxed kind. Not the overly fancy kind with truffle oil or breadcrumbs (though I won’t say no to those either). I’m talking about the real deal—baked in a deep dish, creamy inside, and topped with a golden, slightly crispy cheese crust that makes you want to dive in with a fork before it even cools.
I remember standing next to my grandmother in the kitchen, impatiently watching as she shredded mountains of cheese by hand. She’d always let me sneak a few pieces, but she had rules—no eating the cheese straight from the mixing bowl! (I always did anyway. Sorry, Grandma.) When it finally came out of the oven, we’d sit down at the table, and for a few minutes, all was right with the world.
This recipe? It’s that mac and cheese—the one that feels like home, like lazy Sunday dinners, like the warmth of family. And the best part? It’s easy, cheesy, and pure comfort on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?
- Four Cheeses, Maximum Creaminess – A mix of white cheddar, mild cheddar, mozzarella, and American cheese gives it that perfect melt.
- Baked to Perfection – That slightly crispy, golden cheese topping? Unmatched.
- Velvety, Never Dry – The milk, cream, and egg mixture keeps it ridiculously creamy inside.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Comfort – No need for fancy add-ins—just pure, classic mac and cheese goodness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep it in advance, bake it when ready, and enjoy stress-free comfort food!
Ingredient Notes:
Here’s what makes this dish irresistible:
- Elbow Macaroni – The classic shape. But let’s be real—cavatappi or shells work too.
- White & Mild Cheddar – White cheddar adds a sharp bite, while mild cheddar keeps things smooth and creamy.
- Mozzarella Cheese – For that gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all love.
- American Cheese – The secret ingredient for ultra-creamy texture. (Trust me, it makes a difference!)
- Cream Cheese – Adds richness and that extra oomph to the cheese sauce.
- Whole Milk & Heavy Cream – The duo that keeps everything luxuriously creamy without being too heavy.
- Eggs – Help bind the mac and cheese so it bakes up just right.
- Seasonings – A pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to balance the flavors.
Pro Tip: If you want an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika to the cheese mixture. You won’t regret it!
How To Make Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese?
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the elbow macaroni two minutes less than the package directions say. This way, it won’t turn mushy when baked. Save ½ cup of the pasta water before draining!
Step 3: Mix the Cheese
In a large bowl, combine 4 oz. of white cheddar, 4 oz. of mild cheddar, all the mozzarella, American cheese, and cream cheese. Give it a good mix and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Custard
In another bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well blended.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the custard mixture over the cheese and mix until everything is combined. Stir in the drained pasta. If the mixture looks too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Step 6: Assemble & Bake
Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 4 oz. of white and mild cheddar over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Let It Rest & Serve
Give it 5-10 minutes to settle before digging in. This helps everything firm up while staying creamy inside.
Now grab a fork, and enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite!
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap portions in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.
Variations and Substitutions:
Looking to switch things up? Try these fun twists:
- Swap the Cheese – Try Gruyère, gouda, or Colby Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Crunchy Topping – Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.
- Make It Meaty – Stir in crispy bacon, shredded chicken, or even ground beef for extra heartiness.
- Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños, cayenne, or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Go Gluten-Free – Use GF pasta and a gluten-free thickener if needed.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese?
This dish is comfort food at its finest, but if you want to round out the meal, here are my favorite pairings:
- A Crisp Side Salad – Something light and fresh to cut through the richness.
- Garlic Bread – Because more carbs = happiness.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or broccoli.
- Barbecue or Fried Chicken – The ultimate comfort food pairing.
- Tomato Soup – Because grilled cheese isn’t the only one that deserves a soup buddy!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I really need eggs?
No, but they help bind everything together. If skipping, add a bit more heavy cream for extra creaminess.
How do I keep it from drying out?
Don’t overbake it! The custard should be set but still creamy. Also, using a mix of milk and cream helps.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use two baking dishes and bake them side by side.
This is the ONLY Mac & Cheese Recipe You Need
There’s something magical about Old-Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese—it’s rich, creamy, and pure nostalgic comfort. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a weeknight dinner, or just because you need some cheese in your life, this recipe never disappoints.
Now tell me—do you like your mac and cheese baked or stovetop? Let’s settle the debate in the comments!
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 16 oz. uncooked Elbow Macaroni
- 8 oz. White Cheddar Cheese shredded and divided
- 8 oz. Mild Cheddar Cheese shredded and divided
- 8 oz. Mozzarella Cheese shredded
- 8 oz. American Cheese chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 6 oz. Cream Cheese softened to room temperature
- 1 c Whole Milk
- 1 c Heavy Cream
- 2 Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven by setting it to 350°F (175°C).
- Start by boiling a pot of water. Cook the elbow macaroni for a couple of minutes, less than what the package instructions suggest for a firm texture. Remember to save 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- To make the cheese mixture, combine 4 oz each of white and mild cheddar cheeses in a bowl along with all the mozzarella, cheese and cream cheese.
- In another container whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder and onion powder until blended.
- Pour the mixture into the cheese mixture. Stir until thoroughly combined.
- Next comes assembly and baking. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until all the noodles are evenly coated. If it appears thick add some of the pasta water.
- Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 4 oz of white and mild cheddar cheeses on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil. Continue baking for another 30 minutes or until you see a brown crust forming on top, with bubbly goodness underneath.
- Allow the macaroni and cheese to sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Indulge, in your homemade cozy Old Fashioned Macaroni and Cheese!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
