Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni & Cheese
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
545 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni & Cheese
Description
The Old Fashioned Baked Macaroni & Cheese starts with perfectly cooked macaroni noodles mixed into a rich sauce made by melting butter and flour to form a roux, then gradually whisking in half-and-half and evaporated milk thickened with corn starch. Dijon mustard and Italian seasoning add subtle depth, while cream cheese and cheddar contribute creaminess and cheesy flavor. The sauce coats the noodles evenly before being transferred to a casserole dish, topped with additional cheese and a breadcrumb mixture toasted with butter and Italian seasoning. Baking briefly creates a crisp topping that contrasts with the creamy interior, delivering a satisfying texture and savory flavor.
This dish suits well as a comforting meal component, particularly when served warm. The blend of cheeses and the seasoned topping provide a balance between creamy and crunchy textures. The recipe's seasoning with Dijon mustard and Italian blend gives a nuanced flavor profile beyond simple cheddar cheese.
A tip from the notes suggests using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother sauce texture, and adding jalapeño slices can introduce a pleasant spicy note. The recipe's baking step is relatively short, preserving moisture and preventing the dish from drying out.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces macaroni pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups half-and-half or milk
- 1 ounce evaporated milk or heavy cream, can
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning dried blend
- salt I used about ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper, to taste
- black pepper I used about ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 cups cheddar cheese divided, white or yellow
Toppings
- ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs style
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees and lightly grease a large casserole or baking dish. Next, Cook macaroni pasta according to package's instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan or skillet melt the 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour. Slowly and gradually whisk in milk until a sauce forms. Stir corn starch into evaporated milk until dissolved, then add to pan and whisk to combine.
- Add dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper, cream cheese, and 1 1/2 cups pepperjack cheese and stir until cheeses are melted and combined with the sauce.
- Stir noodles into the sauce. Transfer to prepared casserole/baking dish. Sprinkle remaining pepperjack cheese over the top.
- Next make the topping. In a pan on the stove, melt butter. Add breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning and stir over medium-high heat until breadcrumbs begin to brown. Sprinkle over pasta.
- Bake, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool slightly and serve.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese to achieve a smoother and creamier cheese sauce rather than pre-shredded cheese.
- For added spiciness, incorporate ½ cup jalapeño slices into the macaroni and cheese mixture before baking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 545 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 545kcal | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 62g | 21% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 23g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 13g | 65% |
| Cholesterol | 64mg | 21% |
| Sodium | 421mg | 18% |
| Potassium | 341mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 8g | 16% |
| Vitamin A | 700IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 445mg | 45% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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