Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese Tips
What other kinds of cheeses can you use in old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese?
Use any variety of cheddar you like in this recipe (we recommend sharp), then mix in other smooth or flavorful cheeses such as fontina, muenster, Swiss or Parmesan. Whatever cheese you use, it’s best to shred your own. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives to keep it from sticking together, which can also keep it from melting smoothly. There are some other good
reasons to grate your own cheese, too!
Can you add a crunchy topping to old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese?
Absolutely! Add crushed corn flakes, croutons, potato chips or Ritz crackers. One of the best options for topping this old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese is a buttered bread crumb topping—combine 1 Tbsp. of melted butter per 2 Tbsp. dry bread crumbs and sprinkle over the mac and cheese before baking.
Can you make old-fashioned baked macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
You can assemble
mac and cheese and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days before baking. Just make sure to wait to add any toppings until you’re ready to bake. To reheat, bring leftovers to room temperature, stir in a little milk or cream, then cover with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes. Then, add any toppings, or stir in more cheese, and bake uncovered for another 5 minutes. Homemade mac and cheese can be tricky to freeze, but there are lots of other options for
freezer-friendly casseroles.
—Hazel Wheaton, Taste of Home Book Editor
Nutrition Facts
1 cup: 267 calories, 17g fat (10g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 425mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.