Here’s a rich, creamy, and comforting recipe for Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese — the kind that’s baked golden on top, creamy inside, and full of old-school cheesy goodness.

Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese

Classic Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese with a creamy béchamel sauce, loads of cheddar, and a crispy golden top. No shortcuts. Just soul-warming, homemade flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Cheese Sauce:

4 tbsp (½ stick) unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream (or use more milk)
2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mild cheddar or Monterey Jack, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ tsp dry mustard powder (optional, for flavor)
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping (Optional but Recommended):

½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
½ cup buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in heavily salted water until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions).
Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook — it will bake more later.

3. Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, until it bubbles and smells slightly nutty (this is the roux).
Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream. Continue whisking until smooth and thickened, about 5–7 minutes.

4. Add the Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in all the shredded cheeses, garlic powder, and mustard powder until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine with Pasta

Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine.
Pour into prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

6. Add Toppings

Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese over the top.
For crunch: mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle evenly.

7. Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Optional: Broil the last 1–2 minutes for a crispier top — just watch closely.

8. Cool Slightly & Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving so it sets slightly.

Tips & Variations

Use block cheese and shred it yourself — pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect meltability.
Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth, or a dash of hot sauce for depth.
Want ultra-creamy mac? Increase the milk and add 2 oz cream cheese.
For soul food style: Try layering cooked pasta and cheese sauce in 2–3 layers before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fried chicken, BBQ ribs, or roasted vegetables.
Great for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight comfort food.

Let me know if you’d like a stovetop version, slow cooker, or extra-spicy twist!