Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese

2 Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Continue whisking for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture becomes bubbly and slightly golden. This will help thicken your cheese sauce.
3 Add the Milk and Seasonings
Gradually add the 4 cups of milk to the roux, whisking constantly to ensure no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of hot sauce for an added kick.
4 Add the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and begin adding the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and smooth. This will create a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
5 Combine the Noodles and Cheese Sauce
Pour the cooked macaroni noodles into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the noodles with the creamy cheese mixture. This step ensures that every bite of macaroni is loaded with that rich, cheesy goodness.
6 Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1 stick of butter and pour it over the top of the macaroni. If desired, you can sprinkle a little extra paprika or additional shredded cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.
7 Bake to Perfection
Bake the macaroni and cheese in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For an extra crispy crust, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
8 Serve and Enjoy
Once your Old-Fashioned Baked Macaroni and Cheese is perfectly baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it hot and enjoy the deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.