Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that envelops you in creamy, cheesy goodness with every scoop. Picture this: a golden crust on top, a rich and velvety cheese sauce beneath, and pasta that just begs to be devoured. Flavorful Rice Recipes The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug, instantly transporting you to a cozy family gathering where laughter and love abound.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients are needed for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
- How long does it take to bake Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
- Can I make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
- What toppings can I use for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
- Conclusion for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese:
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for any day that ends in “Y.” Whether you’re battling the midweek blues or celebrating a friend’s birthday, Southern Baked Mac and Cheese always brings joy to the table. Trust me; one bite will have you reminiscing about your grandma’s cooking while secretly plotting your next cheesy adventure.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is simple enough for even the most novice cook, yet it promises restaurant-worthy flavor.
- The blend of cheeses creates a rich and gooey texture that’s irresistible.
- Its gorgeous, bubbling top adds visual appeal, making it the star of any dinner table.
- Perfect as a main course or side dish, you can easily customize it with add-ins like bacon or veggies!
Ingredients for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Elbow Macaroni: Use about 1 pound of elbow macaroni; it’s classic, but feel free to mix it up with shells or cavatappi.
- Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor; grate it yourself for maximum creaminess.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese adds smoothness; combine it with cheddar for an amazing depth of flavor.
- Milk: Whole milk works best here for that extra creamy texture; don’t skimp!
- Butter: You’ll need butter to create your roux—trust me, it makes all the difference.
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken your cheese sauce to that glorious gooeyness we all crave.
- Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top gives a crunchy contrast to the creamy inside; panko works wonders too!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish (about 3 quarts) and give it a good spray with nonstick cooking spray. Now you’re ready!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside while you work on that cheesy masterpiece.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour until smooth. Cook this mixture for about one minute—don’t let it brown; we’re not making cookies here!
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about five minutes). Remove from heat and stir in your grated cheeses until everything is wonderfully melty.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to your cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness. Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top (and maybe some extra cheese if you’re feeling adventurous). Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and enjoy every cheesy bite! You might want to savor this moment because once people taste it, they’ll be back for seconds—no pressure!
With each forkful of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, you’re not just tasting food; you’re experiencing nostalgia wrapped in creamy bliss. Whether served at family dinners or potluck parties, this dish will undoubtedly steal hearts—and stomachs! So go ahead; whip up this classic recipe today! Baked Broccoli Cheese Balls.
You Must Know
- This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- With gooey cheese and creamy goodness, it transforms any gathering into a feast.
- Easy to whip up, it guarantees smiles all around.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente while preheating your oven. Meanwhile, prepare the cheese sauce on the stovetop. Oven Fried Chicken Thighs Combine everything in a baking dish for that perfect Southern Baked Mac and Cheese experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses for a unique flavor profile, add garlic powder for an extra kick, or toss in some crispy bacon bits or sautéed vegetables. The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until bubbly or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the creamiest mac and cheese, use a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese.
- Let the pasta cool slightly before mixing with the sauce for better texture.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before baking for maximum flavor.
Sometimes when I make this Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, friends dive right in and declare it’s better than their grandma’s recipe! That moment of approval makes all the cheesy effort worthwhile!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
To prepare Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, you will need elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, butter, flour, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. These ingredients create a creamy and cheesy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. You can adjust the types of cheese to include your favorites or to add depth. For a touch of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce. This dish is versatile and allows for personal touches based on your taste preferences. For more inspiration, check out this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
How long does it take to bake Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese typically takes about 30 minutes to bake after preparation. Initially, you will need around 20 minutes to cook the macaroni and prepare the cheese sauce. Once combined and placed in a baking dish, allow it to bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden brown on top. A crisp breadcrumb topping can enhance texture and flavor. For best results, monitor closely during the last few minutes to achieve perfect browning without overcooking.
Can I make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Prepare the dish as instructed but stop before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake from cold; this may require an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time. This method allows flavors to meld together nicely while saving you time on busy days.
What toppings can I use for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
For Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, several tasty toppings can enhance flavor and crunch. Common options include seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crispy texture. You can also sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for an even cheesier experience or add crumbled bacon for a savory twist. Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can provide a pop of color and freshness as well. Experimenting with toppings allows you to customize this comfort dish further.
Conclusion for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese:
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that combines creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. The recipe is simple yet allows for personal adaptations based on your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, this mac and cheese delivers rich flavors that everyone loves. Remember to experiment with various cheeses and toppings for unique twists on this beloved dish. Gather your ingredients today for a delightful homemade experience!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the quintessential comfort dish, delivering a perfect blend of creamy cheese sauce and tender elbow macaroni. Topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer, this recipe is both easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Ideal for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings, every bite brings nostalgia and warmth to the table. Whip up this classic delight today for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 3-quart baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about one minute.
- Gradually add milk while constantly stirring until thickened (around five minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cheeses until melted.
- Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
