Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This Southern baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with flavor and creaminess. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or a cozy dinner at home, this dish features five kinds of cheese and a rich custard base. With its ooey-gooey texture and simple preparation, it will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: No complicated techniques here! Just mix and bake for a satisfying dish.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of cheeses and spices creates a rich, savory flavor that delights every palate.
• Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for Sunday dinners, holidays, or potlucks—everyone loves macaroni and cheese!
• Leftover Friendly: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or easy leftovers.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like bacon or veggies for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make Southern baked mac and cheese.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-by-11 or 9-by-13-inch baking dish
• Large stockpot or dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A quality baking dish ensures even cooking and perfect browning on top.
• Stockpot/Dutch Oven: Provides ample space to cook pasta while infusing it with flavor from chicken broth.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Southern baked mac and cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

Pasta

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Cheeses

• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
• 8 oz colby jack cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
• 8 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 8 oz American cheese (cubed)
• 4 oz softened cream cheese (warmed in the microwave for 30 seconds)

Liquids

• 1 cup half and half
• 1 cup heavy cream

Seasonings

• kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1-2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp mustard powder

Eggs

• 2 large eggs

How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Butter an 8-by-11 or 9-by-13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large stockpot or dutch oven halfway with chicken broth (or water mixed with 1 tbsp salt if you don’t have broth), then bring it to a boil. Add in the elbow macaroni:
1. Cook until just under al dente according to package directions.
2. Drain the pasta once cooked but not fully done since it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Mixture

While the pasta cooks:
1. Use a wooden spoon to combine half and half, heavy cream, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the Colby jack cheese, all of the mozzarella cheese, all of the American cheese, and all of the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir well until flavors meld together.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Cheese Mixture

Stir in cooked macaroni and eggs until well incorporated with the cheese mixture.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Pour the macaroni mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly across the dish.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Generously top with remaining cheddar and Colby jack cheeses. Optionally sprinkle a bit more smoked paprika on top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until cheese crust is bubbly and golden brown:
1. Avoid over-baking to keep macaroni tender.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow baked macaroni and cheese to cool for about 5 minutes before serving hot.

Step 9: Store Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Enjoy this classic Southern baked mac and cheese that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

How to Serve Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Southern baked mac and cheese is a dish that brings comfort and joy. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile for different occasions. Here are some great ways to serve this delicious dish.

Family Style

• Serve the mac and cheese directly from the baking dish at family gatherings. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy seconds!

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant touch, serve in small ramekins or individual baking dishes. This makes for a perfect presentation at dinner parties.

With a Salad

• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. The crispness of the salad complements the richness of the mac and cheese.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside fried chicken or barbecue ribs. The creamy mac and cheese is an excellent counterpart to savory proteins.

Topped with Extras

• Enhance each serving by topping with optional ingredients like crispy bacon, jalapeños, or breadcrumbs for added texture.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

To achieve the ultimate southern baked mac and cheese, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheeses for better flavor. A mix of sharp cheddar, colby jack, and mozzarella creates a rich taste profile.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the macaroni just under al dente before baking. This prevents mushiness after baking.

• Don’t Skimp on Cream: The combination of half-and-half and heavy cream adds richness. This step is crucial for that creamy texture.

• Let it Rest: Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool slightly before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to scoop.

Best Side Dishes for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with your southern baked mac and cheese can elevate your meal even more. Here are some excellent options:

1. Collard Greens: These savory greens provide a healthy balance to the cheesy dish with their distinctive flavor.

2. Fried Chicken: A classic pairing, fried chicken complements the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly.

3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture, making every bite enjoyable.

4. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds bring freshness while offering a crunchy texture.

5. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers additional comfort food vibes alongside your macaroni dish.

6. BBQ Ribs: Smoky BBQ ribs provide a robust flavor contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, creating a well-rounded plate.

8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw will provide crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the mac and cheese nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Southern baked mac and cheese can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin this beloved dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni fully before baking can lead to mushy results. Cook it just under al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning your cheese mixture can result in bland mac and cheese. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and spices before adding the eggs.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheeses may not melt well or provide the rich flavor needed. Opt for high-quality cheeses for creamy texture and better taste.
• Not letting it cool before serving: Serving the mac and cheese immediately can cause it to be runny. Letting it cool for a few minutes allows it to set properly.
• Ignoring the baking time: Over-baking will dry out your dish and make the pasta mushy. Keep an eye on it, and remove when the top is bubbly and golden.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking if possible.

Reheating Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF (180ºC). Cover with foil and heat until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short increments, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream to a pan over low heat. Stir until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Southern baked mac and cheese.

What makes Southern Baked Mac and Cheese different?

Southern baked mac and cheese is known for its creamy texture, rich flavors from multiple cheeses, and a custard base that sets it apart from other versions.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! You can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative that still maintains great flavor.

How do I customize my Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

Feel free to add ingredients like cooked bacon, jalapeños, or vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything a day ahead, cover it tightly, then bake just before serving for convenience.

Final Thoughts

This Southern baked mac and cheese is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday feast, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite!