Description
Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and soul. This creamy, cheesy dish features a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, mild cheese, and the secret ingredient: mascarpone. Ideal for family gatherings or holiday feasts, it’s easy to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. This mac and cheese is not only rich in flavor but also offers versatility; feel free to customize it with your favorite cheeses or spices. Elevate your dining experience with this crowd-pleaser that promises to delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (plus more for baking dish)
- 1 large egg (beaten, room temperature)
- 1 13 oz. can evaporated milk
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 8 oz extra-sharp white cheddar cheese
- 12 oz mild cheddar cheese
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- 1½ tsp. salt (or to taste)
- 1 tsp cajun or creole seasoning
- ½ tsp dry mustard powder (or 1 teaspoon dijon mustard)
- â…› tsp ground nutmeg
- fresh cracked pepper (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a baking dish with butter.
- Cook macaroni until al dente (approximately 12 minutes), drain, and stir in butter.
- Shred all cheeses and mix in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone, evaporated milk, whole milk, and seasonings until smooth.
- Combine buttery macaroni with cream mixture and half of the shredded cheese.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before folding in the beaten egg.
- Layer half of the mixture in the baking dish, sprinkle with half of the remaining cheese, then repeat.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg