When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many of us, it’s that gooey, cheesy, soul-warming Southern Baked Mac and Cheese that steals the show at family gatherings. Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, dreamy dish that hugs your insides like a warm blanket on a cold day. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds with promises of cheesy goodness and crispy edges. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Take a moment to picture this: your loved ones gathered around the dinner table, laughter echoing as they dig into this decadent dish. Southern Baked Mac and Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia and happiness—perfect for Sunday dinners or any occasion that calls for a touch of love and comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
- The blend of cheeses creates a rich flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Visually, the golden top contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta underneath, making it a feast for the eyes.
- It’s versatile enough to be served as a side or main dish—add in some veggies or proteins if you're feeling adventurous!
Ingredients for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- Elbow Macaroni: About one pound will do nicely; these little shapes hold onto cheese sauce perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Grate about two cups; its tangy flavor is essential to achieving that classic taste.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: Another two cups add creaminess; feel free to mix in pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Milk: Use whole milk for richness; alternatives like buttermilk can add tanginess.
- Butter: You’ll need half a cup melted; it adds richness and helps create the sauce.
- All-purpose Flour: A quarter cup is needed to thicken the cheese sauce.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: One cup creates that delightful crunchy topping we all love.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; don't forget these basics—they’re essential in elevating flavors!
For the Sauce:
- Mustard Powder: A teaspoon adds depth; it’s like a secret ingredient that enhances overall flavor.
- Garlic Powder: A teaspoon brings out savory notes in every bite—because who doesn’t love garlic?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's heating up, grab your favorite baking dish and give it a light spritz with nonstick cooking spray. We don’t want our masterpiece sticking!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add in one pound of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente—about seven minutes should do. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In another pot over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter. Once melted, whisk in a quarter cup of flour until smooth. Gradually pour in about three cups of milk while stirring continuously until thickened—this usually takes about five minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheeses
Once your sauce has thickened, reduce heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until completely melted. Don’t forget to sprinkle in salt, pepper, mustard powder, and garlic powder! Stir until everything is combined into gooey perfection.
Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce mixture. Stir gently until every macaroni piece is coated with that cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs for that crunchy finish! Bake in your preheated oven for about twenty-five minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
And there you have it! Transfer to plates or serve straight from the baking dish—just be ready for oohs and ahhs as everyone digs in!
This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese isn't just food; it's an experience wrapped up in nostalgia and gooey goodness that'll leave everyone asking for your secret recipe! Honey roasted colorful carrots.
You Must Know
- Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is more than just comfort food; it's a hug in a bowl.
- This creamy delight brings family and friends together, making every gathering memorable.
- The combination of rich cheese and tender pasta creates an irresistible dish that's as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by boiling your pasta until it's al dente. While that’s happening, melt butter in a saucepan for your cheese sauce. Once the pasta is ready, combine it with the sauce, pour everything into a baking dish, and top with extra cheese before baking until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a kick. Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed veggies for extra flavor and texture. You can even sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch—everyone loves a little texture!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, ensuring it stays creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, remember to mix your cheeses well to avoid clumps.
- Always taste your cheese sauce before combining with pasta—it should be delicious!
- Let the mac rest after baking to set nicely before serving.
I once made this dish for a family reunion, and my cousin declared it “life-changing.” He even tried to bribe me with dessert for the recipe! That day taught me that good food really does bring people together.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
To prepare Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, you will need elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, butter, flour, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients combine to create a creamy and cheesy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Creamy ham and cheese pasta Feel free to customize the recipe by adding breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture or incorporating spices to enhance the flavor.
Can I make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Southern Baked Mac and Cheese in advance. Simply follow the recipe until you reach the baking step. Instead of baking it right away, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake it, remove the cover and add extra cheese on top if desired. Bake as directed until bubbly and golden brown.
How can I make my Southern Baked Mac and Cheese creamier?
To achieve an extra creamy texture in your Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, consider using a combination of cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda alongside sharp cheddar. Additionally, adding more milk or cream to the cheese sauce will enhance creaminess. Stirring in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking can also contribute to a richer flavor and texture.
What can I serve with Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese pairs well with various dishes. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside fried chicken or barbecue ribs. A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables can balance the richness of the mac and cheese. Pesto grilled cheese sandwich If you prefer lighter fare, consider serving it with grilled shrimp or sautéed green beans for a complete dining experience.
Conclusion for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese :
In summary, Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a delicious comfort food that combines pasta with a rich cheese sauce. To make this dish truly special, use high-quality cheeses and consider preparing it ahead of time for convenience. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the quintessential comfort food that warms both the heart and soul. This rich dish features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, all topped with a crunchy panko breadcrumb layer. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe brings nostalgia and joy to every bite.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 7 minutes), then drain.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually stir in milk until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, mustard powder, and garlic powder.
- Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce until well coated.
- Transfer to the baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables. - Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for variety. - Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes before serving for improved texture.
