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
Scale
- 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.