Description
Southern Baked Mac & Cheese
This rich, creamy, and cheesy baked mac & cheese is loaded with three cheeses, a buttery custard base, and a golden, crispy top—the ultimate comfort dish!
Ingredients:
For the Mac & Cheese:
1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tbsp butter
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp mustard powder (optional)
For the Topping:
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with butter.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk milk, heavy cream, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and mustard powder.
Mix in cheddar, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheese.
Assemble the Dish:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the macaroni and pour half of the cheese sauce over it.
Add the remaining pasta and pour the rest of the sauce.
Top with extra cheddar, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and golden baked mac & cheese—perfect for any occasion!
Would you like a spicier or extra creamy version?
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. 2. Cook the 1 lb of elbow macaroni in well-salted boiling water until just al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and immediately toss with the 4 tbsp of butter to prevent sticking. 3. In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 large eggs, and all dry seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and optional mustard powder). 4. Stir the 2 cups of cheddar, 1 cup of mozzarella, and 1 cup of Colby Jack into the milk mixture until well combined. 5. Place half of the buttered pasta in the prepared dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over it. Repeat with the remaining pasta and sauce. 6. For the topping, evenly sprinkle the ½ cup cheddar, ½ cup mozzarella, and optional ¼ cup breadcrumbs. 7. Bake on the middle rack, uncovered, for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is deeply golden and bubbly. 8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with parsley and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich mac and cheese is a hearty main but pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a classic comfort food plate, add roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic green beans, or honey-glazed carrots. It’s also the perfect companion to pulled pork, fried chicken, or meatloaf. For gatherings, serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation.
How-to Summary
To make Southern Baked Mac & Cheese: Cook pasta al dente and toss with butter. Whisk milk, cream, eggs, and seasonings, then stir in three cheeses. Layer pasta and sauce in a dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until golden and set. Rest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the mac and cheese completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely. Gruyère adds nuttiness, pepper jack brings heat, and Gouda offers a smoky note. Always include some good melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for the classic texture.
Why are eggs in the recipe? The eggs create a custard-like base as it bakes, giving the dish a rich, sliceable structure instead of a runny sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave with a splash of milk, or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Is the breadcrumb topping necessary? No, it’s optional. The extra cheese topping will create a delicious crust on its own. Breadcrumbs simply add an extra textural crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will soften further in the oven—aim for al dente. Do not add hot pasta to the egg and milk mixture, as it could scramble the eggs. Ensure your shredded cheese is at room temperature to help it melt evenly into the sauce. Finally, do not skip the resting time after baking; this allows the custard to set for perfect slices.
Conclusion
This Southern Baked Mac & Cheese recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience with its creamy, custardy interior and gloriously crispy top. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. Its versatility in cheeses and pairings makes it a timeless recipe you’ll return to again and again. Dig in and enjoy the delicious, cheesy results!