Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: southern baked mac and cheese! This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness that just makes you smile. Growing up, my family would whip this up for every holiday and gathering, and the smell alone would get everyone flocking to the kitchen. Trust me, there’s just something magical about that golden, bubbly top and the cheesy, hearty pasta underneath. Southern baked mac and cheese is more than a side dish; it’s a must-have for any occasion, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s loved by so many!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound elbow macaroni – the classic choice for that perfect cheesy bite!
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – this is where the magic happens, bringing that rich flavor!
- 2 cups milk – I use whole milk for extra creaminess, but you can use what you have on hand.
- 1 cup heavy cream – this adds that luscious texture that makes it so comforting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter – we’ll melt this for the cheese sauce, adding a touch of richness.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – to thicken up our creamy sauce just right.
- 1 teaspoon salt – a must for enhancing all those delicious flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a little kick that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – this gives a nice depth of flavor and a touch of color!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – because everything’s better with a hint of garlic!
How to Prepare Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Preheat and Cook
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that beautiful golden top later! While the oven warms up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. You want them firm since they’ll cook a bit more in the oven. Once they’re ready, drain them and set aside. Don’t forget to give them a little rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process!
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Now, onto the creamy goodness! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Once it’s all melted, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir this mixture until it’s smooth and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Finally, add in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s all melty and divine!
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Now for the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked macaroni with that luscious cheese sauce, making sure every piece is coated in cheesy goodness. Transfer this cheesy mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are slightly crispy, and that irresistible aroma fills your kitchen. Let it rest for a few minutes before diving in—trust me, the wait is worth it!
Tips for Success
To take your southern baked mac and cheese to the next level, consider these handy tips! First, don’t skimp on the cheese—using a mix of sharp cheddar and a creamier cheese like Monterey Jack can create a beautiful flavor balance. Also, try adding some cooked bacon or sautéed onions for an extra punch of flavor. If you want to make it a bit healthier, toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach for color and nutrients. And remember, letting it rest for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set up nicely, making it easier to serve. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Variations
The beauty of southern baked mac and cheese is how versatile it can be! Here are some fun ways to customize this classic dish to make it your own:
- Cheese Medley: Instead of just sharp cheddar, mix in some Gruyère for a nutty flavor or creamy Havarti for extra meltiness. You can even add a bit of blue cheese for a tangy kick!
- Veggie Delight: Want to sneak in some greens? Add steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted cauliflower to the mix. It not only brightens up the dish but also makes it a bit healthier!
- Protein Power: For a heartier meal, mix in some cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken. This adds a savory depth that’s simply irresistible.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You could even sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for that extra zing!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten the flavors. Just stir them into the cheese sauce before combining with the macaroni for a fresh twist.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a crunchy finish, mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it on top before baking. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture beautifully!
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to get creative and make this southern baked mac and cheese truly yours. The possibilities are endless, and I guarantee you’ll discover a new favorite combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious southern baked mac and cheese, and now you have some leftovers—lucky you! To store it properly, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help keep that creamy goodness intact. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save it for longer, feel free to freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should stay good for about 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key to maintaining that creamy texture. For the best results, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Add a splash of milk to help revive the creaminess, and cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, to make sure it warms evenly. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like that cheesy goodness, even as leftovers!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the numbers, it’s important to remember that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, keep that in mind as you whip up your delicious southern baked mac and cheese! Here’s a typical breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Enjoy every cheesy bite, knowing that you’ve got a comforting dish packed with flavor and a bit of nutrition too!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use other shapes like shells or cavatappi. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure everything is perfectly al dente.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If your sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Just whisk in a bit more milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. It should be creamy but not runny.
Can I freeze southern baked mac and cheese?
Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It should be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crispy. The smell alone will have you salivating, but a gentle shake of the pan should reveal a slight jiggle—just enough to know it’s perfectly set!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation, perfect for any skill level
- A comforting dish that brings everyone together around the table
- Customizable with endless variations to suit your taste
- Great for leftovers, making it a fantastic meal prep option
- A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress family and friends
- Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: 7 Layers of Comfort
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Southern baked mac and cheese is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish baked to perfection.
Ingrédients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth.
- Gradually add milk and cream, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add 3 cups of cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or sausage.
- Try mixing different cheeses for variety.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 25g
- Graisses Saturées: 15g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 40g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 20g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 70mg
Mots-clés: southern baked mac and cheese
