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close up of old fashioned mac and cheese being spooned out of casserole dish

Grandmas Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe (Oven Baked)

This good old fashioned baked mac and cheese recipe is rich, creamy, and full of nostalgic flavor just like grandma used to make. Made with sharp cheddar, gruyere, and simple pantry seasonings, it bakes up bubbly and golden in the oven for the ultimate comfort food side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese diveded
  • 2 cups shredded gruyere cheese or mozzarella cheese
  • ½ + teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Panko breadcrumbs optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Boil pasta in salted water and cook for the minimum package time. Drain and place into a baking dish.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream. Add 2 cups of cheddar, the gruyere, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until melted and smooth, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir to coat every noodle.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheddar on top. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • This recipe can be doubled easily - just use a larger baking pan.
  • Always shred your own cheese for the best melt and gooey cheese pulls. Bagged cheese has a coating that keeps it from melting smoothly.
  • For a darker, crispier top, switch the oven to broil at the end and cook until it reaches your favorite level of golden brown.
  • Love a smoky flavor? Add a little extra smoked paprika.