Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This Southern baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy texture and rich cheesy flavor, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a hearty side dish, this recipe stands out thanks to its unique blend of five cheeses and a simple preparation method. You’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands that’s ooey-gooey and never dry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires no roux or complicated techniques; just mix and bake!
• Flavor Explosion: Made with five different cheeses, this dish delivers an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a Sunday dinner, this mac and cheese fits right in.
• Creamy Texture: The custard-like base ensures every bite is rich and creamy without being overly heavy.
• Feed a Crowd: With 16 servings, it’s perfect for large gatherings or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Southern baked mac and cheese, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Baking dish (8-by-11 or 9-by-13 inches)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven: Ideal for boiling the macaroni and ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for thoroughly combining all the cheese and cream ingredients.
• Baking dish: Provides the perfect space for baking the mac and cheese to gooey perfection.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious Southern baked mac and cheese:

• 1 tbsp butter (for buttering the pan)
• 16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 10 cups water mixed with chicken broth (I use Better than Bouillon)
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
• 8 oz colby jack cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
• 8 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 8 oz American cheese (cubed)
• 4 oz softened cream cheese (warmed in the microwave for 30 seconds)
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 cup heavy cream
• kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1–2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• 2 large eggs

How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Butter an 8-by-11 or 9-by-13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large stockpot or Dutch oven halfway with chicken broth (or water mixed with salt) and bring it to a boil.
1. Add in elbow macaroni.
2. Cook until just under al dente according to package directions.
3. Drain the pasta after cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Base

While the pasta is boiling, combine:
1. In a large mixing bowl, mix half of each shredded cheddar and colby jack cheeses with all of the mozzarella, American cheese, and warmed cream cheese.
2. Stir in half-and-half and heavy cream until well blended.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Add:
1. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder.
2. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
3. Ensure flavors are balanced before moving on.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Cheese Mixture

Stir in:
1. The cooked macaroni along with beaten eggs into the cheese mixture until well combined.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour:
1. The macaroni mixture into your prepared baking dish.
2. Spread it evenly across the dish.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Top:
1. Generously sprinkle remaining cheddar and colby jack cheeses over the mixture.
2. Optional: Sprinkle extra smoked paprika on top.

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Bake:
1. Place in preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until bubbly with a nicely browned top.
2. Avoid over-baking to keep pasta tender.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Let cool:
1. Allow mac and cheese to set for about five minutes before serving hot.

Now you can enjoy your delicious Southern baked mac and cheese! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days if you have any left!

How to Serve Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Southern baked mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various dishes. Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive holiday meal, serving this cheesy delight can elevate any occasion.

With Fried Chicken

• Pairing fried chicken with Southern baked mac and cheese creates a classic comfort food combination. The crispy chicken complements the creamy texture of the mac and cheese perfectly.

As a Side for BBQ Ribs

• BBQ ribs bring smoky flavors that balance the richness of the mac and cheese. This duo is perfect for summer cookouts or any outdoor gathering.

Alongside Collard Greens

• Collard greens add a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the cheesy pasta dish. This combination is often found in traditional Southern meals.

On a Holiday Table

• Serving Southern baked mac and cheese during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas adds warmth to your table. It’s a great way to please guests of all ages.

With Grilled Shrimp

• Grilled shrimp offers a lighter protein option that complements the heaviness of mac and cheese. Seasoned shrimp can bring an extra layer of flavor to your plate.

As Part of a Potluck Spread

• This dish is ideal for potlucks as it can be made ahead of time and served warm. It’s sure to be one of the first dishes to disappear!

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How to Perfect Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

To achieve the ultimate Southern baked mac and cheese, follow these key tips for delicious results.

• Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheeses like sharp cheddar and colby jack, as they melt beautifully and enhance flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the macaroni just under al dente before baking. It will absorb some moisture in the oven without becoming mushy.
• Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: When combining your cheese mixture with the pasta, make sure everything is well incorporated for even distribution of flavors.
• Don’t Over-Bake: Keep an eye on your dish while it bakes. You want a bubbly, golden top but avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
• Add Spice: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick that brings depth to your macaroni.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the mac and cheese to rest after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve in portions.

Best Side Dishes for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

When serving Southern baked mac and cheese, pairing it with complementary sides makes for a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these are a classic Southern appetizer that pairs well with mac and cheese.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor alongside rich macaroni.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers freshness that cuts through the creaminess of the dish, making each bite more enjoyable.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds another layer of comfort food goodness to balance out your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color, nutrients, and flavor diversity to your plate while maintaining a healthy balance.
6. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the savory flavors in mac and cheese, creating a satisfying harmony on your table.
7. Macaroni Salad: For those who love pasta, a cold macaroni salad provides different textures while keeping with the theme.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with cheesy dishes like mac and cheese.

These side dishes not only enhance your meal but also create an inviting atmosphere around your Southern baked mac and cheese!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make common mistakes when preparing Southern baked mac and cheese, which can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long will result in mushy pasta after baking. Always cook it just under al dente so it finishes cooking in the oven.
• Not seasoning enough: Skipping proper seasoning can leave your dish bland. Taste your cheese mixture before adding the macaroni, and adjust salt and spices accordingly.
• Using too much salt: Cheese is inherently salty, and adding too much salt can overpower the dish. Use kosher salt sparingly to avoid overwhelming flavors.
• Skipping the cream cheese: The cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that enhances texture. Don’t leave it out; warm it slightly for easier mixing.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can lead to burned cheese on top while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to 350ºF for even cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Southern baked mac and cheese in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and it can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF (180ºC). Cover with foil to prevent drying out, then heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through, stirring between.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Southern baked mac and cheese, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different types of cheese for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

You can definitely customize your cheese blend! Feel free to use your favorites or whatever you have on hand.

How do I make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese creamy?

To ensure creaminess, use a mix of heavy cream, half-and-half, and cream cheese. This combination creates that perfect texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to baking, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake before serving!

What should I serve with Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, greens, or coleslaw for a complete meal!

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just omit any meat-based broth and stick with vegetable broth instead.

Final Thoughts

Southern baked mac and cheese is a comforting classic that brings joy to any table. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins like bacon or vegetables for a personal touch!