When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. Picture this: creamy, dreamy cheese enveloping tender pasta, creating a warm hug for your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing you as it bakes to golden perfection. It’s that dish that beckons you from across the room, making you forget all your cares and worries. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
This delightful casserole has a unique way of bringing people together—whether it’s at family reunions, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy night in front of the TV. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and stories as we waited for the macaroni to bubble away in the oven. The anticipation was just part of the experience, and every bite felt like a loving embrace from her kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
- The rich flavor profile balances sharp and creamy cheeses that melt in your mouth.
- Its golden crust is visually stunning, making it the star of any dinner table.
- This dish is versatile enough to serve as a side or main course on any occasion.
Ingredients for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Elbow Macaroni: Use about 1 pound of elbow macaroni for the perfect cheesy base; it’s classic and holds sauce beautifully.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: About 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor; feel free to experiment with different varieties.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: Adding 2 cups of Monterey Jack gives an extra creaminess; choose freshly grated cheese for best results.
- Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess; about 4 cups will help create that luscious cheese sauce everyone loves.
- Butter: About half a cup of butter adds richness; unsalted butter is best so you can control the seasoning.
For the Sauce:
- All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need about half a cup to create a roux that thickens your cheese sauce perfectly.
- Mustard Powder: A teaspoon enhances the cheese flavor without being overpowering; trust me on this one!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add salt generously—think ocean! Toss in your elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you whip up that glorious cheese sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter until bubbly (but not browned). Gradually whisk in half a cup of flour while stirring continuously until smooth. Let it cook for about two minutes—this helps eliminate that raw flour taste.
Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce
Slowly pour in four cups of milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until the mixture thickens; this takes about five minutes. Stir in mustard powder along with two teaspoons of salt and one teaspoon of black pepper for some zing!
Step 4: Add Your Cheeses
Once your sauce is thickened, reduce heat to low and stir in three cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and two cups of Monterey Jack cheese. Keep stirring until everything melts into gooey perfection.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, mixing well so every noodle gets coated in cheesy goodness. Pour this mixture into a greased baking dish (about 9×13 inches) for optimal cheesiness.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you let this beauty settle for about ten minutes—this helps flavors meld together! Bake uncovered for around thirty minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and watch everyone’s eyes light up when they take their first bite! Serve with love—and maybe a little sprinkle of paprika if you want to show off your culinary skills!
You Must Know
- This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is more than just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate.
- Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, this recipe will make you the star of any gathering.
- It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente, then drain it while you melt butter in a separate pot. Whisk in flour to create a roux before adding milk and cheese. Combine everything for creamy perfection, then bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses for a twist on flavor! Try pepper jack for some heat, or add spinach for a veggie boost. You can even sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for added crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk for creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Make sure to mix the cheese well to prevent clumping.
- Always taste as you go; seasoning can make all the difference!
I once made Southern Baked Mac and Cheese for my family reunion, and it vanished faster than my cousin’s chance of winning at poker! I still hear tales of that cheesy goodness.
FAQs:
What makes Southern Baked Mac and Cheese special?
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese stands out due to its rich, creamy texture and the use of a variety of cheeses, often including sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even cream cheese. This dish is typically baked to perfection, creating a delightful crust on the top while keeping the inside gooey and flavorful. The combination of spices and sometimes a hint of mustard elevates it further, making it a beloved comfort food in Southern cuisine.
How can I make my Southern Baked Mac and Cheese creamier?
To achieve a creamier Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, consider incorporating more cheese into your sauce or using a mix of cheeses for added depth. You can also add ingredients like sour cream or heavy cream to the cheese sauce. Another tip is to slightly undercook your pasta before mixing it with the cheese sauce; this way, the pasta will absorb some moisture while baking, resulting in an incredibly creamy texture.
Can I make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Just assemble the dish without baking it, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge but expect it to take a bit longer to cook through. This is an excellent option for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
What side dishes pair well with Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside crispy fried chicken or barbecue ribs for a hearty meal. Fresh greens like collard greens or simple salads help balance the richness of the mac and cheese. perfect pairing with mac and cheese Additionally, roasted vegetables can provide color and nutrition to your plate while complementing this classic comfort food perfectly. classic Southern fried chicken.
Conclusion for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese:
In summary, Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a deliciously rich dish that captivates taste buds with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. By understanding how to enhance its flavor through various cheeses and preparation methods, you can create an unforgettable experience at your dining table. cheesy potato pasties Whether enjoyed as a comforting solo meal or paired with savory sides, this recipe offers versatility that makes it a cherished favorite among many. Enjoy every bite of this classic comfort food!
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, melty cheeses with perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that warms both the heart and soul. This classic recipe creates a golden, bubbly crust that beckons you to dig in. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this mac and cheese will delight everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 cups whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Boil salted water in a large pot, add elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for 2 minutes.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in milk until thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Melt the cheeses: Reduce heat to low; mix in sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack until melted.
- Combine: Stir cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For a creamier texture, consider adding half-and-half instead of whole milk or mixing in sour cream. Feel free to swap cheeses or add ingredients like spinach or bacon for extra flavor.
