Old-Fashioned Pioneer Macaroni and Cheese

5 from 1 vote

Old-Fashioned Pioneer Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully simple, this old-fashioned pioneer macaroni and cheese casserole is comfort food at its finest. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, it's the kind of recipe that filled farmhouse tables long before boxed macaroni and cheese existed.

Prep Time10

Cook Time50

Total Time1

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: budget friendly recipe, casserole recipe, dinner recipe, easy meal, easy recipe, lunch recipe, pasta recipe, side dish recipe

Servings: Servings

Calories: 345kcal

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Equipment

Casserole Set

Serving Bowl

Ingredients

16 Ounces Elbow Macaroni
16 Ounces Cheese shredded
1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
1 Teaspoon Paprika
1 Pint Heavy Whipping Cream
4 Tablespoons Butter thinly sliced

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente, according to package directions. Drain well.
16 Ounces Elbow Macaroni
Spread the cooked macaroni evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle with the salt, pepper, and paprika.
1 Teaspoon Salt, 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper, 1 Teaspoon Paprika
Evenly distribute the shredded cheese over the macaroni.
16 Ounces Cheese
Slowly pour the heavy whipping cream evenly over the casserole.
1 Pint Heavy Whipping Cream
Arrange the butter slices across the top.
4 Tablespoons Butter
Bake uncovered for about 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the cream has thickened into a rich sauce.

Notes

Tips for the Best Macaroni and Cheese

Don't overcook the pasta. It will continue cooking in the oven.
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than packaged shredded cheese.
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little additional paprika over the top before baking.

Nutrition