Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese – Easy Recipe

Oh, my friend, you are in for a treat with this Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese! This isn’t your typical mac and cheese—nope, this one is the real deal. We’re talking about creamy, cheesy, and just a bit of crispy perfection on top that will have you going back for seconds (or thirds). Whether it’s a family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, this mac and cheese is guaranteed to steal the show. Trust me, when you pull it out of the oven, the cheesy aroma will fill the room, and everyone will be lining up for a bite.

So, why should you make this? Well, it’s comfort food at its finest—rich, indulgent, and just so satisfying. The combination of cheeses is perfect, creating a smooth, velvety texture that coats every noodle. Plus, it’s got that golden-brown top that makes each bite just a little bit crispy. Sounds like heaven, right? Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new go-to!

Why You’ll Love Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This recipe isn’t just about making a meal—it’s about creating moments that make you feel warm and happy. It’s simple, yet elegant enough to impress your guests. Here’s why it’s bound to be a favorite:

Versatile:

Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday feasts. Imagine this on the table at Thanksgiving or just a cozy Sunday dinner at home. It works every time!

Budget-Friendly:

No fancy, hard-to-find ingredients here. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen, which means you can whip up this dish without a trip to the store!

Quick and Easy:

You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make this mac and cheese. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are totally worth it. If you can boil pasta and stir cheese, you’ve got this in the bag!

Customizable:

Add a little extra kick with some hot sauce, or make it your own with a different blend of cheeses. Feel free to experiment and tweak the flavors to match your cravings!

Crowd-Pleasing:

Whether you’re serving kids or adults, this mac and cheese is sure to be a hit. It’s the kind of dish everyone will rave about and ask for the recipe.

Ingredients in Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Now, let’s talk ingredients! This is a recipe where simple pantry staples come together to create magic. No need to get fancy—just good ol’ reliable ingredients that you likely already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

Elbow Macaroni:

The perfect base for this mac and cheese. It’s sturdy enough to hold all that cheesy goodness but still soft and tender when baked.

Cheddar Cheese:

Sharp, tangy, and melty. This cheese adds that irresistible depth of flavor and creaminess that makes you want to dig right in.

Mozzarella Cheese:

Mild and gooey, mozzarella brings a soft, stretchy quality to every bite. It melts beautifully, making the texture of the mac and cheese dreamy.

Parmesan Cheese:

For a touch of nuttiness and a little salty bite, parmesan rounds out the cheese mix and adds a bit of zing to the dish.

Milk:

For that rich, creamy sauce that will coat every noodle with a velvety texture. It helps everything come together perfectly.

Butter:

Because, well, butter makes everything better, right? It adds richness and flavor that takes this mac and cheese to the next level.

Flour:

To thicken your sauce and make it oh-so-silky. You need just a little bit to help create that beautiful, creamy texture.

Seasonings:

Salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. These simple seasonings elevate the flavor without overshadowing that glorious cheese.

(Note: The full list with measurements is included in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that’ll have everyone begging for your secret.

Preheat Your Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). We want it nice and hot so the mac and cheese bakes to golden perfection.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t forget to save a bit of pasta water in case your sauce needs a little thinning later!

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt your butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux (this helps thicken the sauce). Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Bring it to a simmer, and once it thickens up, stir in the cheeses until everything is smooth and melted.

Season It:

Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and stir to combine. Taste it—you might want to add a little more seasoning depending on your preferences!

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked pasta to the cheesy sauce, stirring until each noodle is coated in that velvety goodness.

Bake It:

Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. If you want an extra crispy crust, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Serve and Enjoy:

Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes it easier to scoop into your dish. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every creamy, cheesy bite!

How to Serve Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

There’s nothing like a big scoop of mac and cheese on its own, but if you’re looking to make this meal even more amazing, here are a few ideas:

Fresh Salads:

Pair this cheesy goodness with a crisp green salad or a tangy slaw to cut through the richness.

Crusty Bread:

Serve with warm, crusty bread for the perfect side to mop up any leftover cheese sauce.

Grilled Meat or Roasted Vegetables:

Serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted veggies like broccoli or cauliflower for a balanced meal that’s still indulgent.

As a Standalone:

Sometimes, mac and cheese is all you need. Just serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and it’s ready to shine on its own.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make this mac and cheese even better:

Prep Ahead:

Make the sauce the day before and store it in the fridge. Then, just cook the pasta, combine, and bake when you’re ready.

Spice It Up:

Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Dietary Adjustments:

If you’re looking for a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and milk. For a gluten-free option, swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative.

Storage Tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that creamy texture.

Double the Batch:

This mac and cheese freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and have a quick, comforting meal ready for another day!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the cheeses with others?

A1: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, fontina, or even a little cream cheese for extra richness.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A2: Yes! You can make it a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready. Just cover it and refrigerate before baking.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?

A4: Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat mac and cheese?

A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?

A6: Definitely! Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and keep an eye on the cooking time.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A7: Yes, this mac and cheese is vegetarian as long as you stick with the dairy ingredients. To make it vegan, you can use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?

A8: Consider pairing with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or even grilled meats.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?

A9: Use lighter cheeses and milk options or sneak in some veggies like cauliflower for added nutrients.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?

A10: A 9×13-inch baking dish works great. If you have a ceramic or glass dish, it helps cook evenly and looks beautiful on the table.

Conclusion:

This Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a true game-changer. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, it’s sure to make everyone feel right at home. Don’t wait any longer—go ahead and make it today!

Print