Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking to wrap yourself in a warm, cheesy embrace, Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the answer to every comfort food craving. This dish is gloriously creamy on the inside, wrapped in a golden, bubbly crown of cheese on top, and bursting with that irresistible home-cooked flavor Southerners have perfected. Whether you’re serving it up as a side at Sunday dinner or letting it take center stage at your next gathering, this recipe brings family and friends together like nothing else, all while hitting every milestone you could possibly want in a picture-perfect mac and cheese.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a starring role, creating magic when brought together in this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Let’s break out those kitchen essentials—nothing fancy here, just honest, flavorful staples that guarantee a dish worth swooning over.

• Elbow macaroni (2 cups, uncooked): Classic shape with all the right nooks for holding onto that luscious sauce.
• Whole milk (2 cups): Keeps every bite creamy without feeling heavy—use whole for the velvetiest texture.
• Evaporated milk (1 cup): Adds rich body and that signature old-school Southern flavor.
• Large eggs (2): They bind the cheese and pasta so you get slices that hold together beautifully.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors into sharp, irresistible focus.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right backbone of warmth and spice.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle nudge of extra flavor that lingers after every bite.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a savory sweet depth you’ll absolutely notice.
• Dry mustard (1/2 teaspoon, optional): This tiny upgrade makes the cheese flavor pop even more.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): The workhorse: bold tang and classic color for that authentic look and taste.
• Colby Jack cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melty and mellow, it brings balance to the sharper cheeses.
• Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): All about that gooey factor—hello, stretchy cheese pulls!
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, cut in pieces): Scattered on top for those rich, golden pockets—irresistible!

How to Make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take a moment to grease your 9×13-inch baking dish—this step means easy clean-up and helps your mac and cheese lift out like a dream. That little bit of prep work makes all the difference down the line.

Step 2: Boil and Drain the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil, then add your elbow macaroni. Cook them just until al dente, following the package directions—it’s all about that perfect, toothsome bite. Drain well and set aside; you want the pasta to hold up to all that cheesy goodness coming its way.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard

In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and, if you’re feeling fancy, dry mustard. This mixture is the secret to that classic, creamy texture you expect from Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese—never gluey, always smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Macaroni and Cheese

Add the drained macaroni to the bowl with your custard. Next, mix in 1 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar, 1/2 cup Colby Jack, and 1/4 cup mozzarella. Give everything a gentle but thorough toss, making sure each piece of pasta is glossy and well-coated in cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Top

Pour your cheesy macaroni mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella right over the top—don’t skimp! Dot the surface with those little pieces of butter. As it bakes, the butter melts into golden pools, adding luscious richness.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is ready when the top is gloriously bubbly and golden, and the center is set yet still creamy. Let it rest 5 to 10 minutes for the perfect slice.

How to Serve Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley delivers a dash of color and a little pop of freshness. For extra Southern flair, a pinch of smoked paprika or a dusting of crushed butter crackers just before serving makes each bite even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair your Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese with classics like collard greens, BBQ chicken, fried catfish, or crispy fried okra. It’s also dreamy beside a fresh tomato salad or tangy coleslaw—anything with a bit of brightness to complement the rich cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it as part of a family-style spread for Sunday supper, portion it into ramekins for elegant individual servings, or dish it up at a potluck straight from the baking dish. For holiday tables, arrange slices on a beautiful platter and garnish with herbs for a show-stopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your mac and cheese to cool slightly, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored this way in the refrigerator, Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese stays tasty for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well! Let it cool completely, slice if desired, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave, or cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until hot and bubbly. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore the creaminess before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic for Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese, small shells, cavatappi, or penne can stand in admirably. Just make sure whatever shape you choose can hold on to all that luscious sauce.

How do I get the top really crispy?

If you crave extra crunch, top your mac and cheese with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking. For even more golden color, broil the last 2 to 3 minutes—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.

Is it okay to leave out the eggs?

The eggs act as a binder, helping the dish set and slice beautifully. If you must go egg-free, expect a creamier, looser texture but still delicious results.

Can I add meat or veggies?

Definitely! Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed veggies like spinach or broccoli before baking. Just remember to keep the pasta-to-custard ratio in balance to avoid a dry result.

What’s the secret to ultra-creamy Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese?

Using both whole and evaporated milk, along with plenty of cheese and gently baking just until set, guarantees that signature creamy texture without losing the sliceable Southern-style look.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never experienced the magic of homemade Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese, now is the time! Gather your ingredients, get that oven ready, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dish that will become an instant classic. Trust me—you’ll be coming back for seconds every single time!

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