This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! It’s made with warm pasta, rich cheese, and a crispy topping that brings joy with every bite.
If you’re like me, you might sneak a spoonful right out of the baking dish! I love how it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up; you might find yourself making it every week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: Classic for mac and cheese! You can substitute it with cavatappi, shells, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides great flavor. If you’re looking for something different, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice.
Heavy Cream: This makes it extra rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a combination of milk and sour cream.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give a delightful crunch. You can replace them with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a different texture.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder boost flavor. Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for a fresh twist!
How Do I Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce is where the magic happens! Getting it creamy requires a careful approach. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by making a roux. Melt the butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly add whole milk and heavy cream to avoid lumps. Whisk continuously until the mix thickens—this takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Once thick, turn down the heat and add the cheeses. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
- If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more milk to get your desired consistency.
Take your time here; patience makes for a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta!
Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Colby jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for extra meltiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smoky flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
- Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard or hot sauce for a slight tang/kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese will take about 15 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for dinner on a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, butter a large baking dish, about 9×13 inches, so that the mac and cheese doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
Next, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside for later—this way, it won’t overcook during baking.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Lower the heat and add the three shredded cheeses: sharp cheddar, Colby jack, and mozzarella. Stir until everything is melted and you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and salt & pepper to taste. For a little extra kick, mix in Dijon mustard or some hot sauce if you like!
5. Combine with the Pasta:
Now, add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until it’s all combined. Make sure every piece of macaroni is coated with the cheesy goodness.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until they are well coated. Sprinkle these breadcrumbs generously on top of the macaroni for that crunchy topping.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and you’ve got some bubbling around the edges. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Let It Cool:
After taking it out of the oven, let the mac and cheese cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set a little and enhances the flavors.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s slightly cooled, serve it warm and revel in the creamy, cheesy Southern comfort that is this mac and cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in!
Tip: For extra creaminess, you can mix in a little cream cheese or evaporated milk to the cheese sauce before baking. Enjoy your comforting dish!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use other shapes like cavatappi, shells, or even penne. Just make sure to cook them until they are al dente, as they will cook further in the oven.
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
How Do I Reheat Leftover Mac and Cheese?
To reheat, place your leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and sprinkle a little milk over the top to help restore creaminess. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
What Can I Add to Customize My Mac and Cheese?
You can mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or even cooked proteins like chicken or bacon for an extra heartiness. For added flavor, try incorporating different cheeses like Gouda or fontina, or even add spices like cayenne pepper for a little heat!