Experience the ultimate in comfort food with our Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. This rich, creamy dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a velvety cheese sauce and a golden, bubbly top. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this Southern classic will delight taste buds and warm hearts.
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for topping)
Directions:
Cook the Macaroni:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a roux. Gradually add the milk and cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Cheese:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if desired.
Combine with Pasta:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole as a comforting main dish or a delicious side.
Serving Tips:
Let it Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese sauce set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny.
Use a Spatula: For easy serving, use a large spatula or serving spoon to scoop out portions. This helps maintain the casserole’s shape and ensures everyone gets a good amount of the crispy topping.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a fresh touch and a pop of color.
Pairing: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. It also pairs well with a light soup or a side of fruit.
Reheat Properly: If reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave. In the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Storage Tips:
Cool Before Storing: Let the casserole cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
Refrigeration: Store leftover macaroni and cheese casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4 days. Make sure the container is well-sealed to avoid drying out.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. First, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To thaw a frozen casserole, place it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before reheating. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat from frozen, but it will take longer and may affect the texture.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven for best results. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. If reheating individual portions in the microwave, cover and heat on medium power to ensure even warming.
Related Recipes:
- Best Macaroni Salad
- Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni
- Southern Buttermilk Pie
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese is traditional for Southern macaroni and cheese, you can experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste. Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Colby for a unique flavor profile. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s been refrigerated.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to make the roux. Also, ensure that the crushed crackers used for topping are gluten-free or omit them altogether. Most cheeses are naturally gluten-free, but double-check labels to be sure.
What can I add to this casserole to make it a complete meal?
For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked protein or vegetables. You can mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach. These additions will enhance the flavor and make the casserole more filling, transforming it into a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Our Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole is the epitome of classic comfort food. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender macaroni, and crispy topping, this dish is sure to be a favorite at your next meal. Whether served as a hearty main course or a comforting side, it’s a true Southern staple that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and southern charm with every bite!
📖 Recipe:
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Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. This rich and creamy dish features tender elbow macaroni smothered in a velvety cheese sauce and topped with a golden, bubbly crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this Southern favorite is a surefire hit with its irresistible combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Easy to prepare and sure to please, this casserole will become a staple in your comfort food repertoire.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Combine with Pasta: Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and optional crushed Ritz crackers. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed.
Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
Add-Ins: Customize with cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables for added flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
