Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: An Incredible Comfort Food Delight

Name: Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 cups whole milk; ½ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 29, 2025

by Hannah Reed

Why You'll Love This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This amazing Southern Baked Mac and Cheese offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese:

Elbow Macaroni: Use about 1 pound of elbow macaroni because nothing says “comfort” like classic shapes soaking up all that delicious cheese.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: About 3 cups grated sharp cheddar will give you that bold flavor we crave in mac and cheese.
Monterey Jack Cheese: Adding about 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese brings creaminess to balance the cheddar’s sharpness beautifully.
Milk: You’ll need about 2 cups of whole milk for a rich, creamy texture—because who wants bland mac?
Butter: Using half a cup of unsalted butter ensures a decadent sauce without extra saltiness.

For the Sauce:

All-Purpose Flour: About half a cup helps thicken our cheese sauce into the luscious coating we desire.
Mustard Powder: Just a teaspoon adds depth to the flavor and enhances the overall taste experience.
Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget these seasonings! Use them to taste because bland mac is just sad.

End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish (about 3 quarts) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any cheesy mishaps.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil about four quarts of salted water in a large pot. Add your macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions—usually around eight minutes—then drain the pasta.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another pot over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter. Once melted, sprinkle in half a cup of flour while whisking continuously for about two minutes until smooth—this creates our roux!

Step 4: Add Milk

Slowly pour in two cups of milk while whisking constantly until fully combined. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly—this should take about five minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheeses

Remove from heat and stir in three cups of sharp cheddar along with one cup of Monterey Jack until melted and fully combined. Stir in mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish.

For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional cheddar on top before baking!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—the ultimate comfort food! Serve it warm at gatherings or simply indulge yourself as an everyday treat. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Southern Baked Mac and Cheese! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

You Must Know About Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This amazing Southern Baked Mac and Cheese offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente while making your cheese sauce. Combine the two, then pour into a baking dish. Finally, add breadcrumbs on top for that crispy finish.

Add Your Touch to Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Feel free to swap in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a kick. You can also toss in cooked bacon bits or sautéed veggies to make it your own!

Storing & Reheating Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This amazing Southern Baked Mac and Cheese offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

When cooking pasta, remember not to overcook it before baking—al dente is key! This prevents mushiness later.

For an extra creamy texture, mix in some cream cheese along with your other cheeses.

Don’t skimp on the cheese! A good blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella ensures maximum gooeyness that everyone will love.

Last Thanksgiving, I served this Southern Baked Mac and Cheese as a side dish, and my cousin couldn’t stop raving about how creamy it was—definitely my new family favorite!

FAQs About Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

What is Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish that embodies the heart of Southern cuisine. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish features elbow macaroni mixed with a rich cheese sauce, often topped with breadcrumbs for added texture. The use of multiple cheese varieties, such as cheddar, gouda, or cream cheese, enhances its flavor profile. homemade marinara sauce rich and creamy Alfredo sauce Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is typically baked to achieve a golden crust on top, making it a favorite side dish at family gatherings and holiday celebrations.

How do I make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese creamy?

To ensure your Southern Baked Mac and Cheese turns out wonderfully creamy, you should focus on using high-quality cheeses that melt well. Incorporating ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream can also enhance the creaminess of the sauce. Additionally, avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente macaroni will absorb some sauce while baking without becoming mushy. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly before baking to achieve that perfect texture throughout every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.

Can I customize my Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is its versatility. You can add various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Consider mixing in cooked bacon or sausage for added flavor, or incorporate vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a healthier twist. Experimenting with different cheese combinations can also give your dish a unique flair while maintaining that classic Southern essence.

What should I serve with Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with numerous dishes, making it an excellent choice for any meal. For a traditional Southern feast, serve it alongside fried chicken or barbecue ribs. It complements roasted vegetables or salads as lighter options. delicious oven-baked ribs This comforting dish also works well at potlucks or family gatherings, where hearty sides are welcomed. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this mac and cheese will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

In conclusion, Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is more than just a side dish; it’s a beloved staple that brings comfort to many tables. With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, this recipe offers versatility for customization while remaining true to its roots. Whether served at family gatherings or simply enjoyed at home, this dish never disappoints. Don’t forget to try out different cheese combinations to find your perfect blend in this delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese!

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