Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Creamy, cheesy, and delicious, this homemade version is sure to become a family favorite.

Why Make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Making Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. This recipe yields a rich and creamy cheese sauce that coats every bite of tender pasta, making it the perfect side dish or main course for any occasion.

How to Make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 325ºF (163ºC). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and set it aside.

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, stopping just short of al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft in the oven.

Make the Roux:

In another pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the flour to create a roux. Add salt, white pepper, and paprika, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.

Create the Cheese Sauce:

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, increasing the heat to medium-high.
Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
Stir in 3 cups of shredded cheese, and keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot.
Pour the hot cheese sauce over the pasta, stirring gently to combine everything evenly.

Assemble:

Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

Rest and Serve:

Let the baked macaroni and cheese sit for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven to help the cheese sauce set, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese as a main course or as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite meats or vegetables. It pairs well with fried chicken, barbecue, or simply on its own for a comforting meal.

Storage Info

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.

Some Techniques or Tips

Be sure not to overcook the pasta during the initial boiling stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Use a combination of your favorite cheeses for the best flavor. Cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyere are popular choices.
For added flavor, you can mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, or chopped vegetables before baking.