Old Fashion Macaroni Cheese
Creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese with a rich cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners and those craving classic American comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter over low heat.
- Add flour to make a paste.
- Add salt and milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and add American cheese, stirring until melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over cooked macaroni in a buttered dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try adding a splash of cream or using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar or Gruyère instead of solely American cheese. If you're looking to spice it up, consider adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper. You can also incorporate cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist, similar to what you might find in Broccoli-Cheddar Strata.
Serving Suggestions
This Old Fashion Macaroni Cheese is perfect as a standalone dish or served alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For an added flavor boost, consider pairing it with Mathis' Family Chicken Stew for a comforting meal. It can also be topped with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy finish or served with a side of Garlic Bread for a classic touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. For a quick reheat, use a microwave but be cautious to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the macaroni.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashion Macaroni Cheese contains roughly 756 calories, with 8g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1884mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While American cheese provides a creamy consistency, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for varied flavors. Just keep in mind that some cheeses may melt differently, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. To enhance the dish, consider adding vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also explore adding plant-based cheeses for a vegan option while maintaining a rich flavor.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and mix it with the macaroni a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly. When ready to bake, simply transfer to a buttered dish and bake as instructed, but you may need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).