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**Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food**
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible, how to prepare it, and a few variations to make it your own.
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What makes **Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese** stand out is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients—pasta, butter, milk, and cheese—you can create a dish that’s rich, creamy, and comforting. Unlike some modern recipes that incorporate fancy cheeses or extra spices, this classic version relies on the comfort of familiar, straightforward flavors.
This mac and cheese is all about getting the perfect balance between smooth, velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta. The beauty lies in the combination of **sharp cheddar cheese** that melts perfectly, and the thick, rich sauce that clings to every bite of macaroni.
### **Ingredients You’ll Need**
– **1 pound elbow macaroni** (or any pasta shape of your choice)
– **4 tablespoons butter**
– **1/4 cup all-purpose flour**
– **3 cups whole milk** (or 2% milk for a lighter version)
– **2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese**
– **½ teaspoon salt** (or to taste)
– **½ teaspoon black pepper**
– **1/2 teaspoon garlic powder** (optional, for added flavor)
– **1/2 teaspoon mustard powder** (optional, for a hint of tang)
– **1/2 cup breadcrumbs** (optional, for topping)
– **1 tablespoon butter** (for breadcrumbs, optional)
### **How to Make Good Ole Fashion Mac and Cheese**
#### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Slowly pour in **3 cups of milk**, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.