If you’re craving that soul-soothing, creamy, and cheesy goodness that makes comfort food unforgettable, you’ve just found the holy grail: the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe. This dish is a celebration of rich cheeses melted into a velvety sauce, perfectly baked until golden and bubbly. Each bite wraps you in the warmth of Southern hospitality and guarantees satisfaction from the first forkful to the last. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a staple in your kitchen and a family favorite for gatherings or lazy weeknight indulgences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is all about combining simple ingredients that pack a big punch. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s the creamy milk and heavy cream building that luscious sauce, or the blend of three cheeses that delivers layers of flavor and texture.
- 1 lb elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides rich flavor and a velvety base for the roux.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to that perfect creamy consistency.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess with a natural, mild sweetness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives extra indulgence and silkiness to the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Delivers that signature bold and tangy cheddar punch.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully for stretch and smoothness.
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded: Adds a buttery mildness and colorful marbled texture.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Gives a nutty kick that enhances every bite.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind the sauce together for a custardy finish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory depth to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a delicate sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (plus more for topping): Adds a warm earthiness and a pop of color on top.
How to Make Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking dish and pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, cook your elbow macaroni just until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through—then drain and set aside. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get mushy after baking, keeping every bite delightfully tender yet structured.
Step 2: Make the roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to create a golden roux. Cooking the flour for 1 to 2 minutes removes any raw taste and sets the stage for a smooth, creamy sauce. This step is essential to get that luscious texture that coats every macaroni piece perfectly.
Step 3: Add milk and cream
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about five minutes. This process gradually builds the creamy base that will carry your cheese flavors beautifully, resulting in the ultimate velvety texture that makes the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Incorporate the cheeses
Take the sauce off the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar, 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup Colby Jack, and all the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses melt fully into a rich, gooey mixture. This combination of cheeses offers the perfect balance of sharpness, creaminess, and nuttiness, giving the mac and cheese its signature depth of flavor.
Step 5: Add eggs and seasonings
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then slowly blend them into the cheese sauce to avoid scrambling. Next, season your sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. These spices gently elevate the dish, providing a subtle hint of warmth and savoriness that complements the cheese without overpowering it.
Step 6: Combine pasta and sauce
Mix the cooked pasta gently into your cheese sauce until every elbow is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness. Pour this luscious mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even baking. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses evenly over the top. This extra cheese layer melts to golden perfection, creating a wonderful crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Step 7: Bake and rest
Sprinkle a little extra paprika over the top for a warm hue and to signal that comforting aroma. Bake your dish uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the cheese sauce to set slightly—this helps you get that classic creamy yet firm texture in every bite.
How to Serve Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra inviting, consider topping the mac and cheese with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Not only do they add a burst of vibrant green color, but their fresh notes cut through the dish’s richness, keeping each bite lively and bright. For a bolder punch, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs on top brings texture and smoky aroma that perfectly complement this Southern classic.
Side Dishes
Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs exceptionally well with dishes like crispy fried chicken, collard greens, or tangy coleslaw. These sides offer a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors—from crunchy to acidic—that balance the creamy richness of the mac and cheese. Consider a light green salad to brighten the meal, or some Southern-style cornbread to keep things deeply comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests? Serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for charming single portions. Alternatively, top it with a handful of roasted vegetables like broccoli or caramelized onions to add subtle sweetness and vibrant color. For a decadent twist, drizzle a little hot sauce or mix in diced jalapeños before baking for that unmistakable Southern heat sensation layered into the creamy dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe actually tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have melded together! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve that silky texture, and avoid microwaving on high to prevent the sauce from separating.
Freezing
You can freeze this mac and cheese before baking by covering the dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adding additional time to ensure it’s heated through evenly and the top crisps up beautifully.
Reheating
The best way to bring leftover mac and cheese back to life is by reheating it in the oven at 325°F (165°C). Cover the dish loosely with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For individual servings, a microwave is fine on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally to keep that creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds sauce beautifully, you can use shells, cavatappi, or even penne. Just be sure the pasta shape has enough surface area to cling to that luxurious cheese sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just make sure your cheese and other ingredients are free from animal rennet if you want it fully vegetarian.
Can I make it spicier?
Definitely! Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce before baking. This will bring a nice kick without overpowering the creamy cheesiness that defines this recipe.
What cheeses can I substitute?
If you can’t find Colby Jack or want a twist, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina are great alternatives. Just aim for a mix that balances sharpness, meltability, and mild creaminess for the perfect bite.
How do I know when the mac and cheese is done baking?
Look for a golden brown, bubbly top and a cheesy aroma filling your kitchen. The edges should be slightly bubbling, and the top should have developed a light crust. Letting it rest after baking also helps firm it up to the perfect consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a baking dish that brings comfort, joy, and a little bit of Southern magic to your table. I can’t wait for you to experience the creamy layers, the golden cheesy crust, and that irresistible flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, you’re about to create memories with a recipe that feels like home.
Print
Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food classic with a crispy golden crust. Featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Colby Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, combined with a velvety homemade cheese sauce enriched with eggs, this dish is baked to bubbly perfection and guaranteed to satisfy any mac and cheese lover.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (plus more for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until just al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside to avoid overcooking in the oven.
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, to create a light roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to combine. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups cheddar, 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup Colby Jack, and all the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Add Eggs Carefully: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Slowly incorporate the eggs into the warm cheese sauce, stirring constantly to prevent scrambling, ensuring a luscious and thick sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to the cheese sauce. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese Topping and Paprika: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheeses over the top of the pasta mixture. Lightly dust with extra paprika for color and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly, golden, and slightly crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes to set for best texture before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded to ensure creaminess and better melt.
- You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
- Make sure to whisk in the eggs slowly off the heat to avoid curdling.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered until warmed through.
- Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for an added crunchy topping if desired.
