It only takes a little bit longer to make than the boxed stuff and is so much tastier.

Simply Recipes / Meghan Splawn

Like so many people, my kids are obsessed with mac and cheese.

Turns out that this Civil War-Era recipe makes a pretty perfect weeknight dinner of mac and cheese!

Overhead view of a baking dish of macaroni and cheese on a marble countertop

Simply Recipes / Meghan Splawn

As a fringe benefit, you also dont need to dirty a colander to finish the pasta.

Ive tried this with seasoned Italian breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs and vastly prefer the hearty panko.

I imaginehomemade breadcrumbswould be incredible here, too!

Overhead view of a bowl of macaroni and cheese with green beans next to a baking dish of macaroni and cheese all on a marble countertop

Simply Recipes / Meghan Splawn

Finally, the whole thing gets baked before serving.

This thickens the cheese sauce more and toasts the breadcrumb topping.