Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a staple dish that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, tender macaroni, and a golden baked crust. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home, this dish offers a satisfying and rich experience with every bite. The secret lies in the harmonious blend of cheeses and the smooth, luscious sauce that binds everything together.
Ingredients
This recipe requires simple pantry staples and a variety of cheeses for a rich, layered flavor profile. You’ll need elbow macaroni, a combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Colby Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, along with milk, heavy cream, butter, and flour to form the creamy sauce. Seasonings such as salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika provide a well-rounded, savory flavor.
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour, cooking for about two minutes until it turns a light golden color. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens.
Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Reduce the heat to low and stir in two cups of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Colby Jack, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt into a smooth, velvety sauce.
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken further.
Tips
For the best results, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce. Also, cooking the macaroni to just al dente ensures it doesn’t become overly soft during baking.
Adding a layer of breadcrumbs on top before baking can create a delightful crunchy crust, enhancing the texture contrast. To kick up the flavor, try mixing the breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of paprika before sprinkling them over the cheese topping.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also a fantastic addition to holiday feasts, fitting perfectly among turkey, ham, and other festive dishes.
For a more indulgent experience, consider serving it with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top. The creamy, cheesy base balances well with spicy and tangy accompaniments.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If the dish appears dry, adding a splash of milk before reheating can restore its creamy consistency.
For longer storage, Southern Baked Mac and Cheese can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Southern Baked Mac and Cheese can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it yet. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, other short pasta shapes like penne, cavatappi, or shells can be used. These shapes also hold the cheese sauce well, making each bite equally delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra heat boost.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the cheese and seasonings, are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its rich, creamy texture and golden baked topping make it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite.
Print
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Description
A creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top, ideal for family meals or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
3️⃣ In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4️⃣ Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, stirring until thickened.
5️⃣ Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
6️⃣ Reduce heat to low, then add 2 cups of cheddar cheese, mozzarella, Colby Jack, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
7️⃣ Add the cooked macaroni and stir to coat.
8️⃣ Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
9️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
🔟 Let the dish cool slightly before serving.