This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food! It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a crunchy topping that makes it extra special.
Honestly, who can resist a big bowl of this cheesy goodness? I always make extra because everyone keeps coming back for more! 🧀
What I love most is how simple it is to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy the smiles around the table. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic choice holds the cheese sauce perfectly. If you’re looking for variety, you can use cavatappi or shells for a fun twist!
Cheeses: Sharp and extra sharp cheddar bring the flavor! You can substitute with medium cheddar if you prefer a milder taste. For a twist, consider adding Gruyère or Gouda for more depth!
Whole Milk: This creates a rich and creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, 2% milk works, though it may not be as creamy. For dairy-free options, look for plant-based milk that’s creamy, like oat milk.
Breadcrumbs: They give a nice crunch on the top. If you want a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead!
How Do You Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but it’s key to a good mac and cheese. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure to cook the roux (butter and flour) just until bubbly; this helps thicken the sauce without a raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly. Start with a small amount to help dissolve the roux completely before adding the rest.
- Cook the sauce just until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Lower the heat before adding cheese. If the heat is too high, the cheese can seize up and become grainy instead of creamy.
Taking these steps ensures your cheese sauce is smooth and creamy, perfect for coating that macaroni!
Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for slight smoky flavor)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to get this delicious Southern Baked Mac And Cheese into your mouth!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important so the mac and cheese bakes evenly once assembled. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, which typically means cooking for 1 minute less than the package instructions. Drain the macaroni and set it aside for a moment.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden (but not browned). Gradually whisk in the milk, taking care to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir for about 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble.
4. Add Seasonings and Cheese:
Reduce the heat and mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Then, add all the shredded cheeses (sharp cheddar, extra sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan) to the sauce. Stir until every bit of cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine and Prepare for Baking:
Remove the cheese sauce from the heat and gently fold in the cooked macaroni until every piece is coated in that cheesy goodness. Transfer this delicious mixture into the greased baking dish. Dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the surface.
6. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is wonderfully golden brown and bubbly. If you want it even more golden, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit so you can scoop out perfect portions. Enjoy your comforting Southern Baked Mac And Cheese!
This dish features a rich blend of several cheeses for depth of flavor, a creamy béchamel base, and a beautifully browned top that is classic to Southern-style baked mac and cheese. You’re in for a real treat!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just be mindful to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta often requires different cooking times.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore some creaminess, and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
Feel free to experiment with your cheese selection! Gouda, Gruyère, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick can add delicious flavors. Just make sure to use a good melting cheese for the best texture.
