Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the quintessential comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with bold cheddar flavor. As the aroma fills the kitchen, the layers of gooey cheese and perfectly baked pasta make you feel right at home, whether you’re preparing a family dinner or bringing a dish to a holiday gathering. This dish has become a tradition in many households, and with its creamy texture and golden-brown topping, it’s easy to see why. It’s a dish everyone can get excited about, and it’s perfect for those who crave a little indulgence.

My family absolutely loves this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Every time I make it, there’s never any leftovers, and it’s always a hit at our gatherings. I especially appreciate that this recipe is made from real ingredients—no processed cheese here, just sharp cheddar, eggs, and milk—creating a cheesy masterpiece that’s far better than anything you can find in a box. The balance of flavors and textures—cheese sauce, creamy pasta, and the crisp top layer—is simply unbeatable. So, let’s dive into this recipe, which will soon become a staple in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with a rich cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a crispy, golden topping. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Creamy Texture: The sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a creamy, indulgent base for the macaroni. The eggs add richness and structure, keeping the dish perfectly set.
• Sharp Cheddar Flavor: This recipe uses real, sharp cheddar cheese, giving the dish a tangy depth of flavor that outshines the processed alternatives.
• Golden Top: The top layer of cheese becomes crispy and golden as it bakes, offering the perfect contrast to the creamy interior.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or potluck, this dish always impresses.
• Easy to Make: Though it may seem like a dish for special occasions, it’s straightforward and easy to prepare with just a few steps.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich and creamy Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese:

• 4 cups dry elbow macaroni
• 3 tbsp salted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt

For Layering:

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided in half)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cook Macaroni:

Cook 4 cups of elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures that the pasta won’t get too soft during baking.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

In the same pot used for cooking the macaroni, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low-medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Keep the heat low to prevent curdling. Once the sauce has thickened, add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.

4. Combine with Pasta:

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cooked macaroni, making sure all the pasta is coated with the cheese sauce.

5. Prepare Egg Mixture:

In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 eggs and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir this egg mixture into the macaroni and cheese until everything is well combined.

6. Layer the Macaroni:

Pour half of the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 13×9-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer. Add the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture, and top with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese.

7. Bake:

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

8. Check for Doneness:

To check if it’s done, insert a knife into the center of the casserole. If the knife comes out clean and the center isn’t runny, it’s ready.

9. Serve and Store:

Serve the Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese warm. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 1/12 of the casserole
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 18g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Serve

This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is versatile and can be paired with many dishes. Here are some ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside fried chicken, grilled steak, or pork chops for a comforting Southern-style meal.
• For Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or a large family meal.
• Pair with Vegetables: Add some greens like collard greens or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance out the richness.
• With Meat: Serve with BBQ chicken or sausage for a hearty meal.
• Comfort Food: Enjoy it on its own as a comforting dinner any night of the week.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Cheese: Always use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, be sure not to overcook it when boiling.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the macaroni and cheese the day before and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
4. Add Seasonings: Customize the flavor with a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for added depth.
5. Crispy Topping: If you like an extra crispy topping, broil the macaroni and cheese for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking to get the cheese extra golden.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different cheese? Yes, feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or even a bit of Parmesan for variety.
2. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it the next day. Just be sure to cover it tightly.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe uses regular elbow macaroni and flour, both of which contain gluten. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta and flour if needed.
4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Reheat in the oven after thawing.
5. How do I know when it’s done? The center should be set, and the top should be golden brown. You can test it by inserting a knife into the center.
6. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
7. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to use penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer.
8. Can I add vegetables? Yes, you can add cooked spinach, broccoli, or other veggies for added nutrition.
9. Can I make this dairy-free? To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese, non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and vegan butter.
10. Can I add meat to this recipe? Yes, you can add cooked bacon, sausage, or chicken for a more hearty version.

Conclusion

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. This recipe features a rich and creamy cheese sauce, perfectly baked pasta, and a golden, crispy top. It’s made with simple, real ingredients and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create this classic dish that is loved by all. Enjoy!

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