Dad's Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Name: Dad's Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus; extra unsalted butter, for the skillet; 1 large yellow onion, cut into 1/8 inch dice; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 3 tablespoons flour; 4 cups whole milk; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon nutmeg; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; ¾ cup grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese; ¾ cup grated asiago cheese; ¾ cup grated dry monterey jack cheese or ¾ cup parmesan cheese; 1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked and drained; 2 plum tomatoes, sliced; ½ cup fresh breadcrumb; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

Servings: persons

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus
extra unsalted butter, for the skillet
1 large yellow onion, cut into 1/8 inch dice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
3 tablespoons flour
4 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon nutmeg
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ cup grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
¾ cup grated asiago cheese
¾ cup grated dry monterey jack cheese or ¾ cup parmesan cheese
1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
2 plum tomatoes, sliced
½ cup fresh breadcrumb
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

1
Preheat oven to 400*F.
2
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
3
Add the onion and garlic, and cook until they are softened, about 2 minutes.
4
Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns light brown, about 3 minutes.
5
Gradually whisk in the milk.
6
Add the paprika, nutmeg, salt and pepper.
7
Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring, until the sauce is thickened, about 5 minutes.
8
Add the cheeses and stir until they are melted.
9
Add the macaroni and stir until the noodles are toroughly coated.
10
Remove from the heat.
11
Do not allow the macaroni to sit at this stage, as it will dry out.
12
Butter one 12 inch skillet.
13
Transfer the macaroni mixture to the skillet.
14
Top with the sliced tomatoes.
15
Sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
16
Bake until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
17
Garnish with the chopped herbs.

576

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

Saved locally in your browser — visible only to you.

How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 19 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus, extra unsalted butter, for the skillet, 1 large yellow onion, cut into 1/8 inch dice, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and more.

Yes, Dad's Macaroni and Cheese falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Dad's Macaroni and Cheese

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions