Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings smiles to every table. Creamy, cheesy, and deliciously flavorful, it’s made with five different cheeses and a rich custard base. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a Sunday family dinner, Thanksgiving feast, or any gathering that calls for a comforting side. The best part? It requires no complicated techniques—just simple ingredients and an easy dump-and-bake method that guarantees ooey-gooey goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies mac and cheese with a straightforward dump-and-bake approach.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of five cheeses and seasonings creates an irresistible flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Comforting Texture: The creamy custard base ensures each bite is rich and satisfying, without being dry.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy it hot out of the oven or save it in the fridge for up to four days—it’s just as delicious reheated!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Southern baked mac and cheese experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• 8-by-11 or 9-by-13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for boiling pasta while infusing it with flavor from chicken broth.
• Baking Dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking while creating that sought-after cheesy crust.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients gently without scratching your bowls or pots.

Ingredients

For this delicious Southern baked mac and cheese, you will need:

• 1 tbsp butter (for buttering the pan)
• 16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 10 cups water mixed with chicken broth (I use Better than Bouillon)
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
• 8 oz colby jack cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
• 8 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 8 oz American cheese (cubed)
• 4 oz softened cream cheese (warmed in the microwave for 30 seconds)
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 cup heavy cream
• kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1-2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• 2 large eggs

How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Grease an 8-by-11 or 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter, then set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large stockpot halfway with chicken broth or water mixed with salt. Bring it to a boil.
Add the elbow macaroni.
Cook until just under al dente according to package directions.
Drain the pasta once it reaches this stage; it will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Mix Cheeses and Creams

While the pasta is cooking:
Use a wooden spoon to combine half and half, heavy cream, half of both cheddar and colby jack cheeses, all mozzarella cheese, American cheese, and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Add spices:
Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Taste test to adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Cheese Mixture

Once seasoned:
Stir in the drained macaroni along with two beaten eggs until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Bake the Dish

Pour everything into the prepared baking dish:
Spread it out evenly.
Top generously with remaining cheddar and colby jack cheeses. Optionally sprinkle more smoked paprika on top.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake for about:
35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Do not over-bake; otherwise, you risk mushy pasta.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let your Southern baked mac and cheese cool for about five minutes before serving hot. Enjoy its creamy texture!

Storage Note

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

How to Serve Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Southern baked mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the mac and cheese directly from the baking dish for a cozy, communal dining experience. Just scoop out generous portions for everyone!

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant touch, use ramekins or small baking dishes to serve individual servings. This is perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.

Topped with Extras

• Add crispy breadcrumbs or fried onions on top before baking for an added crunch. This gives the dish a delightful texture contrast.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can brighten up the dish. Sprinkle them on right before serving for an eye-catching finish.

With Hot Sauce

• Provide hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick. It complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese beautifully.

Paired with Proteins

• Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or smoked sausage. The rich flavors of the proteins pair well with the cheesy goodness.

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How to Perfect Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Getting that perfect creamy texture in your southern baked mac and cheese takes a little know-how. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.

• Use quality cheese: Invest in good quality cheeses for richer flavor. Sharp cheddar, colby jack, and mozzarella will create the best combination.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Cook the macaroni just under al dente. It will absorb some liquid during baking without becoming mushy.
• Mix well: Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly for even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
• Let it rest: Allow your mac and cheese to cool slightly before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like cayenne pepper or nutmeg for unique flavor profiles.
• Cover while baking: If you prefer a softer top, cover your baking dish with foil during part of the baking time.

Best Side Dishes for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Southern baked mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its creamy richness. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Collard Greens – A classic soul food side that adds a nutritious touch to your meal.
2. Cornbread – Sweet or savory cornbread brings a delightful texture contrast to your plate.
3. Fried Chicken – Crispy fried chicken is always a crowd-pleaser and matches perfectly with mac and cheese.
4. Green Bean Casserole – This creamy casserole adds another layer of flavor while maintaining Southern charm.
5. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans provide an excellent balance to the cheesy richness.
6. Potato Salad – A cold potato salad offers refreshing relief from the warm, gooey mac and cheese.
7. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies can add color and nutritious value to your meal.
8. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast that brightens up your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Southern baked mac and cheese can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking the macaroni too long before baking can result in a mushy texture. Aim for just under al dente so it finishes cooking in the oven.
• Using low-quality cheese – Not all cheeses melt well. Use good-quality cheeses for that creamy, gooey texture that makes Southern baked mac and cheese irresistible.
• Skipping seasonings – Neglecting spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika can make your dish bland. Season generously to enhance flavors.
• Not tasting the mixture – Failing to taste the cheese mixture before adding eggs and pasta can lead to unbalanced flavors. Always adjust seasonings as needed.
• Underestimating baking time – Baking for too little time can leave your mac and cheese soupy instead of creamy. Keep an eye on it until the top is bubbly and golden.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in a sturdy, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy reheating.

Reheating Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, removing foil for the last 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Add a splash of milk or cream to a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Southern baked mac and cheese.

Can I use other types of cheese in Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well for that creamy texture.

What is the best way to serve Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

Serve it hot as a side dish or main course at gatherings like Thanksgiving or family dinners. It pairs wonderfully with many meats.

How do I make my Southern Baked Mac and Cheese extra cheesy?

Add more shredded cheese on top before baking or mix different types of cheeses into the base for richness.

Can I prepare Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just refrigerate before baking, then bake when ready.

What is unique about Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

This recipe stands out due to its combination of five cheeses, creating a rich flavor profile that’s perfect for soul food enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

Southern baked mac and cheese is a comforting dish that’s sure to delight everyone at your table. Its creamy texture combined with rich flavors makes it perfect for holidays or any gathering. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients or spice levels—make it your own!