Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. This recipe combines sharp cheddar with a creamy sauce, making every bite delicious. You can’t go wrong with this classic dish, whether served as a side or a main meal.

How to Make Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
3. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring it to a simmer.
6. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and sour cream until smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
8. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
10. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Serve this dish hot from the oven. It’s great on its own or alongside fried chicken, grilled meats, or a fresh green salad. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese or herbs on top for added flavor.

How to Store Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.

Tips to Make Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

• Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente, as it will cook more in the oven.
• Use a mix of cheeses for more flavor. Consider adding mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• For a crunchy topping, add some breadcrumbs mixed with butter on top before baking.

Variation

For a little kick, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also mix in cooked bacon or ham for a heartier version.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s sealed well in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I add to this recipe?
A: You can add veggies like broccoli, spinach, or tomatoes. Just make sure to cook them a bit before mixing them in.

Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is rich, cheesy, and perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. This classic dish combines sharp cheddar with a creamy sauce, making every bite delicious.

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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

• 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.

Cheese Sauce

• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese Use sharp cheddar for best flavor.
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter Melted.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For topping.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
3. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring it to a simmer.
6. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and sour cream until smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
8. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Baking

1. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
2. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses or adding breadcrumbs mixed with butter on top before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days.