Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy, rich, and utterly delicious, the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday celebration, this recipe stands out with its secret ingredient—evaporated milk! With its gooey texture and comforting flavors, this dish will quickly become a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish without fuss.
• Versatile Pairing: This mac and cheese pairs beautifully with various proteins or can stand alone as a delightful side.
• Flavorful Twist: The use of evaporated milk adds richness that elevates this classic dish to new heights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, potlucks, or holidays, and watch it disappear in no time!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 3-quart casserole dish or 9×13 pan
• Pot for boiling macaroni
• Colander for draining pasta
• Box grater or food processor for shredding cheese
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: A good-quality casserole dish ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Box Grater: Using a box grater or food processor makes shredding cheese fast and efficient.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter (plus more for baking dish)
– 1 large egg (beaten, room temperature)
– 1 13 oz. can evaporated milk
– 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
– 8 oz extra-sharp white cheddar cheese (good quality)
– 12 oz mild cheddar cheese (or another mild cheese like monterey jack, fontina, colby jack, or gouda)
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
– 1½ tsp. salt (or to taste)
– 1 tsp cajun or creole seasoning
– ½ tsp dry mustard powder (or 1 teaspoon dijon mustard)
– ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
– fresh cracked pepper (for topping)

How to Make Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly coat your casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Cook the macaroni in salted water according to package directions but add two extra minutes to the maximum cooking time. Drain well.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese

While the macaroni cooks, shred your cheeses using a box grater or food processor. Mix all the shredded cheeses together until evenly combined.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese and evaporated milk until smooth. Next, mix in whole milk along with salt, cajun seasoning, mustard powder, and nutmeg.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained macaroni into the sauce mixture along with half of the shredded cheese. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your mixture before adding in the beaten egg. Adjust seasonings if needed. Once satisfied with flavor, stir in the beaten egg until fully integrated.

Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish

Pour half of your mac and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly with a spoon. Sprinkle half of the remaining shredded cheese on top before repeating with the rest of the mixture and remaining cheese.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you desire an extra crispy top, place under the broiler for an additional minute or two while watching closely.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and let cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows it to set perfectly!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting bowl of deliciousness!

How to Serve Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Serving Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese can elevate any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect dish for various occasions. Here are some delicious suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the baked mac and cheese straight from the oven in a large dish. Allow everyone to help themselves for a cozy, communal feel.

Individual Portions

• Use ramekins or small baking dishes to create personal servings. This makes for a charming presentation and allows for easy portion control.

With Toppings

• Elevate your dish by adding toppings such as crispy breadcrumbs or extra cheese before baking. This adds texture and visual appeal.

As a Buffet Item

• Place it on a buffet table alongside other dishes during gatherings or potlucks. It pairs well with various foods, making it a crowd favorite.

Leftovers Storage

• After serving, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for convenience.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving. This adds freshness and color to your dish.

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How to Perfect Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Perfecting Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is about balancing flavors and achieving that creamy consistency everyone loves. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use Quality Cheese – Opt for high-quality cheeses like extra-sharp cheddar for depth of flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Ensure your macaroni is slightly undercooked before mixing it with the cheese sauce; it will absorb some sauce while baking.
• Mix Cheeses Thoroughly – Combine different types of cheese evenly to distribute flavor throughout the dish.
• Taste Before Baking – Always taste your mixture before adding the egg; adjusting seasoning now ensures great flavor later.
• Let It Rest – Allow the mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set up nicely for serving.
• Experiment with Spices – Don’t hesitate to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for additional flavor kick.

Best Side Dishes for Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese can complement its richness. Here are some tasty options that work well together.

1. Collard Greens – A classic Southern side, collard greens offer a nutritious contrast to cheesy goodness.
2. Fried Chicken – Crispy fried chicken provides texture and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with mac and cheese.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread adds a delightful sweetness, making it a perfect match for this savory dish.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred seasonal vegetables provide a fresh balance to the creaminess of the mac.
5. Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess, cutting through the richness of the mac and cheese.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These provide earthiness and slight bitterness, creating an excellent contrast in flavors.
7. Deviled Eggs – A traditional favorite that offers creaminess, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.
8. Baked Beans – The sweet and savory notes of baked beans harmonize well with cheesy pasta dishes, creating a hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients – Always ensure your cheese and milk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent a smooth, creamy texture.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cook the macaroni just until al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, so avoid mushy pasta.
• Skipping the taste test – Always taste your mixture before adding the egg. Adjust seasonings as needed for maximum flavor.
• Not layering cheese properly – Layering cheese between macaroni ensures an even melt and a delicious cheesy crust on top.
• Rushing the cooling time – Let your mac and cheese sit after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Allow mac and cheese to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop – Add a splash of milk in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like gouda or fontina for unique flavors while keeping cheddar as a base.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more cajun or creole seasoning according to your taste preference for that extra kick.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything a day ahead, cover, refrigerate it, then bake when ready.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with fried chicken or greens for a classic southern meal.

Final Thoughts

The Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various cheeses or spices to suit your taste. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try it out!