Mind-Blowing Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Name: Mind-Blowing Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cups whole milk; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp ground mustard (optional); 1/2 tsp paprika (for garnish); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Isabella

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This Mind-Blowing Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is everything comfort food dreams are made of. Creamy, cheesy, and with a perfectly golden crust, this recipe elevates the classic dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for the ultimate side dish, this baked mac and cheese will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistibly creamy and cheesy: The blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, gooey sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of pasta.

Crowd-pleasing: This dish is a guaranteed hit at potlucks, holiday dinners, or casual family meals.

Customizable: With optional toppings like breadcrumbs or added seasonings, you can tailor it to your taste.

Comforting and nostalgic: It’s a classic that never goes out of style.

Perfectly baked: The oven-baked finish adds a deliciously crisp topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)

4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cups whole milk

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp ground mustard (optional)

1/2 tsp paprika (for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking until smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

Add spices and cheese: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard (if using), and salt and pepper. Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.

Prepare to bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the mac and cheese mixture to it. Top with breadcrumbs (if using) and sprinkle with paprika.

Bake until golden: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Cool and serve: Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves 8-10 as a side dish.

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Add protein: Stir in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or diced ham for a heartier meal.

Vegetarian twist: Mix in sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions for added flavor and texture.

Different cheeses: Experiment with smoked gouda, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as instructed.

Related Recipes:

Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni

FAQs

How do I prevent my mac and cheese from drying out?

To keep it creamy, ensure the cheese sauce is thick and coats the pasta well before baking. Adding a splash of milk before reheating also helps.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese works but can result in a slightly grainy texture due to added anti-caking agents. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.

What’s the purpose of the roux?

The roux acts as a thickening agent for the cheese sauce, giving it a smooth and creamy consistency.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cold.

Do I have to bake it?

While baking adds a delicious crust, you can skip this step and serve it straight from the stovetop for a quicker version.

Conclusion

This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a beautifully golden crust. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Serve it alongside your favorite dishes, and watch it steal the spotlight.

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