This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is all about creamy goodness with a crispy top. Made with rich cheese and tender pasta, it’s a comfort food favorite that warms your heart.
You know it’s good when it pulls apart with that cheesy stretch! I can’t resist sneaking a scoop before serving—just be ready for the compliments! 😄
I love making this dish for gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare—just mix, bake, and enjoy the cheesy magic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta for mac and cheese! If you want to mix things up, consider using shells or cavatappi for a fun twist. Both hold creaminess well!
Cheese: I love using sharp and mild cheddar for a rich flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Gouda, Fontina, or a blend of whatever cheeses you have. Just keep the total amount the same!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over salt. However, you can use margarine or oil if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just keep the same amount!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a lovely crunch to the topping! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too. Or, for extra cheesiness, sprinkle on more of your favorite cheese instead!
How Do I Get the Cheese Sauce Smooth?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but following a few steps can help! This is all about creating a good roux and then adding milk slowly.
- Start by cooking the flour in butter until bubbly but not browned. This is your roux!
- When adding milk, do it gradually while whisking to avoid clumps. Go slow!
- Keep whisking! Once it thickens, add the cheese little by little. This prevents lumps and keeps the sauce silky.
With these tips, you’ll have a creamy cheese sauce that coats your macaroni perfectly! Enjoy your mac and cheese-making journey! 😊
Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle kick)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or extra cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 30 minutes to bake, making a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large baking dish and butter it well to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. When it’s melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux and keep whisking for about 2 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly but not browned. This step is key to a smooth sauce!
4. Add the Milk:
Slowly pour the warmed milk into the roux while whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth. Keep cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine the Cheeses:
Now it’s time to make it cheesy! Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheeses (make sure to save some cheese for the topping). Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne or smoked paprika if desired. Stir until everything melts together into a creamy sauce.
6. Mix in the Macaroni:
Gently fold in the drained macaroni until every piece gets coated with that luscious cheese sauce. Yum!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Pour that cheesy macaroni mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese and/or panko breadcrumbs evenly on top to create a wonderful, crunchy crust.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown—what a sight!
9. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, let your mac and cheese rest for about 5-10 minutes so it firms up a bit, making it easier to serve. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley before digging in!
Now, enjoy your delicious, creamy Southern Baked Mac And Cheese, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself! It’s comfort food at its finest! 🎉🧀
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp and mild cheddar, along with Monterey Jack, work great, you can substitute with your favorite cheese. Gouda, Fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese can add unique flavors—just make sure to keep the total cheese amount about the same.
How Do I Store Leftover Mac and Cheese?
To store leftovers, let them cool and then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without the gluten!
How Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Extra Creamy?
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese sauce. Mixing in some heavy cream with the milk will also elevate the richness. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
