Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

why make this recipe

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal. This dish combines creamy cheeses with perfectly cooked macaroni to create a rich, gooey texture. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave something delicious. By making this recipe, you not only get to enjoy a delightful meal but also treat your loved ones to a comforting classic that warms the heart.

how to make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in the flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook until the mixture is thickened and bubbly.
6. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted.
7. Mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully blended.
8. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
9. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.
10. Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
12. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

how to serve Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Serve Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese hot from the oven. It pairs well with a green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also offer it as a side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. For extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped parsley or a dash of hot sauce on top before serving.

how to store Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

To store leftover Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese, let it cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

tips to make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

1. For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon or sausage to the macaroni mixture.
2. Use a mix of different cheeses for varied flavors. Gouda or fontina can be good additions.
3. Consider adding some chopped vegetables, like broccoli or spinach, for added nutrition.
4. If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.

variation

You can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free elbow macaroni and flour substitute. Another variation is to turn it into a spicy mac and cheese by adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
   Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other types like penne, fusilli, or shells.

2. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
   You can use low-fat cheeses and milk to reduce calories. You can also use less butter.

3. Can I prepare this in advance?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it right before serving.

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

A classic comfort food that combines creamy cheeses with perfectly cooked macaroni for a rich and gooey texture, ideal for family gatherings and holidays.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Cheese

• 2 cups elbow macaroni Cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cream cheese

Sauce Base

• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter Melted
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Seasonings

• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in the flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook until the mixture is thickened and bubbly.
6. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted.
7. Mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully blended.
8. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
9. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.
10. Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.

Baking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
2. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon or sausage. Use a mix of different cheeses for varied flavors. Adding chopped vegetables like broccoli or spinach enhances nutrition. For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs before baking. This dish can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.