Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! With a crunchy topping that gives it just the right bite, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for sure!
I love how this mac and cheese makes me feel all warm inside. Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings or movie nights. Just grab a spoon and enjoy the cheesy goodness! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for mac and cheese. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, feel free to use any small pasta like shells, penne, or fusilli. Different shapes can give a fun twist to the dish!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor, but you can mix it up! Try using mild cheddar for less intensity or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. If dairy-free is needed, there are great plant-based cheese options available.
Milk & Heavy Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a super creamy sauce. You can use low-fat milk if you want a lighter version, but it may lose some creaminess. Unsweetened almond or oat milk can also work as good dairy-free alternatives!
Panko Breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do just fine, though panko gives a crispier texture.
How Do I Make the Perfect Cheese Sauce?
Getting that cheese sauce right can make or break your mac and cheese. The key is the roux: a mix of flour and butter that thickens the sauce. Here’s how to nail it!
- Start by melting butter over medium heat until it’s fully liquid.
- Whisk in flour and keep stirring for 2-3 minutes until it’s bubbly and a light golden color. This is your roux, which gives the sauce its base.
- Gradually add milk and cream, about a cup at a time, whisking to avoid lumps. This ensures a smooth sauce.
- Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat a spoon. Patience is key here—this usually takes 8-10 minutes.
With this technique, your sauce will be thick, creamy, and full of flavor, setting the perfect stage for that cheesy goodness!
Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Macaroni:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra Southern flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to bake, making it a total of approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook just until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is bubbly and golden (this is your roux, which will thicken the sauce).
3. Add Milk and Cream:
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, about 1 cup at a time, making sure it’s smooth before adding more. Continue to cook and whisk frequently until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (this should take about 8-10 minutes).
4. Stir in Seasonings and Cheese:
Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Gradually add in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella, stirring until everything is melted and smooth.
5. Mix Pasta with Cheese Sauce:
Add the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce mixture and stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly with that creamy goodness.
6. Prepare to Bake:
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you’re looking for a crunchy finish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top as well!
8. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. It will smell heavenly!
9. Serve:
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to scoop up and enjoy that luscious, creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese!
This recipe yields a creamy, cheesy mac with a beautiful golden crust and stretchy cheese, just like in the image. Enjoy this comforting Southern delight!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time. Simply combine them, place in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Cheese Can I Use as Substitutes?
If you don’t have sharp cheddar, you can use mild cheddar for a milder flavor or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Other good substitutes include gouda, fontina, or a blend of your favorite cheeses!
How Do I Store Leftover Mac and Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems too thick.