Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, Southern mac and cheese is a beloved classic that brings rich, bold flavors to the table. This recipe uses a blend of cheeses and a creamy béchamel sauce to coat perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, baked to golden perfection with a crispy top. Ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies every time.

Ingredients List

– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 3 cups whole milk (warm)
– 1 cup heavy cream (warm)
– 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, creating a roux.

Step 3: Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta.

Step 6: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

Serves 6 people

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 450
Carbs: 40g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Pairings/Suggestions

Serve with crispy fried chicken, collard greens, or a fresh green salad. Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Seasonal Relevance

A perfect comfort food for cooler months, especially during fall and winter holidays.

Conclusion

This Southern mac and cheese recipe offers the ultimate cheesy comfort with a crispy topping and creamy interior. It’s simple to make yet impressively delicious—a must-have for any soul food menu.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, shells or cavatappi also work well.

Q2: How can I make it extra creamy?
Add an extra half cup of cream or a dollop of cream cheese for more richness.

Q3: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the mac and cheese, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.