Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: 5 Irresistibly Cheesy Reasons

Name: Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: 5 Irresistibly Cheesy Reasons
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

oktober 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of Southern baked mac and cheese! This dish is pure comfort food, and every bite is like a warm hug. The creamy, cheesy goodness just melts in your mouth, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. I remember as a kid, my grandma would whip up a big dish for Sunday dinner, and we’d all crowd around the table, ready to dig in. There’s something so special about the combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, creating that ooey-gooey texture that makes you want to go back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this Southern baked mac and cheese, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in my home and so many others. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together—and who doesn’t love that?

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that creamy, cheesy perfection in your Southern baked mac and cheese! Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces elbow macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully. Cook it just until al dente, so it stays perfectly tender after baking.
4 tablespoons butter: You’ll melt this to create a luscious base for your cheese sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken your cheese sauce, giving it that rich, creamy consistency.
3 cups milk: Whole milk works wonders here, making your sauce nice and creamy. Let it warm up a bit before adding it to the pan!
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show! It adds a bold flavor that’s simply irresistible.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This cheese brings that melty stretch we all love. It complements the cheddar perfectly!
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount of heat to balance the creaminess.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness and a lovely color to your baked mac and cheese.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: For that deliciously crunchy topping, which creates a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.

Make sure you have everything on hand before you start cooking. It’ll save you from any last-minute dashes to the store! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making Southern baked mac and cheese! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a preheated oven ensures your mac and cheese cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden crust on top. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Next, grab that package of elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package directions. Usually, it takes about 7-8 minutes to get it to al dente, which is just right! Once it’s cooked, make sure to drain it well. You don’t want any extra water hanging around, or it’ll make your cheese sauce watery, and we definitely don’t want that!

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Now for the magic! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s all melted, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and stir for about a minute. This creates a nice roux, which is the base of your sauce. Gradually whisk in the 3 cups of milk, stirring constantly until it thickens up—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheeses, salt, pepper, and paprika until everything is melted and creamy. Oh wow, the smell is divine!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked macaroni to your cheesy sauce and mix it well. You want every little elbow to be coated in that glorious cheese sauce—this is the secret to a perfect Southern baked mac and cheese! Make sure you’re gentle but thorough in mixing to ensure even coverage.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Transfer your cheesy pasta mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top for that crunchy texture we love. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. When you pull it out, let it sit for a few minutes before digging in. The anticipation is all part of the experience!

Tips for Success

To make your Southern baked mac and cheese truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks! I’ve learned a lot over the years, and I want to share these gems with you.

Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is a must, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses! Gruyère or fontina can add a gourmet touch, while a bit of cream cheese will give you an extra creamy texture.
Add Some Spice: If you like a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce. It adds a delightful warmth that balances the creaminess!
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the mac and cheese in advance! Just follow all the steps up to baking, then cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Perfectly Golden Top: For an even crunchier topping, try mixing some grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top. It adds a lovely flavor and color!
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember to cook your macaroni al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven. This way, it won’t turn mushy!
Experiment with Add-Ins: Want to mix things up? Try adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or steamed broccoli for a twist. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, too!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a Southern baked mac and cheese that’s not only delicious but totally unforgettable. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for a serving of this creamy Southern baked mac and cheese. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg

This Southern baked mac and cheese is definitely a treat, so enjoy it in moderation! It’s rich and filling, making it the perfect comfort food for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Dive in and savor every cheesy bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about this delectable Southern baked mac and cheese? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my answers to help you on your cheesy journey.

Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While I love the combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyère or pepper jack can add a unique twist, and mixing different varieties can create a flavor explosion!

How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your mac and cheese a day in advance. Just assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this Southern baked mac and cheese is totally vegetarian! It’s a great option if you’re looking for a meat-free dish. Just keep an eye on your cheese choices to ensure they fit your vegetarian lifestyle.

What can I add to make it healthier?
If you want to sneak in some veggies, consider adding steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or even spinach to the cheese mixture. You can also swap out some of the pasta for whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber and nutrients!

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Just prepare the mac and cheese as directed, then let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until bubbly.

Hopefully, these answers help you whip up a fantastic Southern baked mac and cheese that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, you can have a comforting dish ready in no time!
Easy Steps: The straightforward instructions make it perfect for cooks of all skill levels—no culinary degree required!
Ultimate Comfort Food: Each bite is creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious—guaranteed to warm your heart and soul!
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or add delicious extras like bacon or veggies for a personal touch.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for an easy weeknight dinner or a stress-free gathering with friends and family.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, this dish is always a hit—everyone loves mac and cheese!
Leftovers to Love: Any leftovers (if you’re lucky!) reheat beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy this dish for days to come.

Trust me, once you experience this Southern baked mac and cheese, you’ll be returning to this recipe again and again!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your Southern baked mac and cheese ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! This dish is so rich and comforting that it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorites:

Collard Greens: The slightly bitter greens are a fantastic contrast to the creamy mac and cheese, adding a healthy touch to your plate.
Fried Chicken: You can’t go wrong with classic fried chicken! The crispy, savory flavors complement the cheesy goodness perfectly.
Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. Think mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber!
BBQ Ribs: For a hearty meal, serve it with smoky, tender BBQ ribs. The combination is a true Southern feast!
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a delightful addition that pairs well with the creamy mac. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce!
Grilled Vegetables: Add some color and health to your meal with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.

Whatever you choose, these sides will elevate your Southern baked mac and cheese experience and create a memorable meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!

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Over mij

Hoi, mijn naam is Julia. Ik ben het hart van Vihaad Recipes en een gepassioneerde liefhebber van lekker eten. Mijn liefde voor koken begon al in mijn kindertijd, geïnspireerd door de heerlijke maaltijden van mijn grootmoeder. Vandaag de dag deel ik smakelijke recepten die mensen samenbrengen door het gedeelde plezier van eten.