Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts. With its creamy texture and rich blend of five cheeses, this dish stands out on any table. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinner, or just a cozy night in, this recipe delivers a deliciously indulgent experience that everyone will love. It’s easy to make without complicated techniques, allowing you to focus on enjoying the meal rather than stressing over preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Texture: The combination of five cheeses and heavy cream creates a rich and velvety dish that melts in your mouth.
- Simple to Prepare: No need for a roux or whisking; just mix and bake for an effortless cooking experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Cooking the pasta in chicken broth adds depth, while spices enhance the overall taste.
- Generous Portions: This recipe serves 16 people, making it perfect for feeding large groups.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve the best results with your Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, having the right tools can make all the difference. These essential items ensure that your dish cooks evenly and comes out perfectly every time.
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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: Necessary for boiling pasta efficiently while adding flavor with broth.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
- Baking dish: The right size ensures even cooking and proper browning of cheese on top.
Ingredients
For this delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, you’ll need:
- 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 to prepare for pouring in your delicious mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large stockpot or Dutch oven halfway with chicken broth. Bring it to a boil.
Add in the elbow macaroni and cook until just under al dente according to package directions.
Once cooked slightly but not fully, drain the pasta.
Step 3: Mix Your Cheeses
In a large mixing bowl:
Combine half of the cheddar cheese, half of the colby jack cheese, all mozzarella cheese, all American cheese, all cream cheese, half-and-half, and heavy cream.
Step 4: Season Your Mixture
Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, kosher salt, and pepper. Stir well:
Taste as you mix to ensure flavors are balanced.
Step 5: Combine Eggs and Pasta
Once satisfied with seasoning:
Stir in cooked macaroni along with two large eggs until everything is well incorporated.
Step 6: Bake It Up!
Pour this cheesy macaroni mixture into your prepared baking dish:
Spread evenly across the dish.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Generously top with remaining cheddar cheese and colby jack cheese:
Optionally sprinkle more smoked paprika on top.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Bake in preheated oven for about 35 minutes:
Look for a bubbly golden crust; avoid over-baking to prevent mushiness.
Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!
Let cool briefly before serving:
Serve hot so that it’s creamy throughout!
With this guide to making Southern Baked Mac and Cheese at home, you’re ready to impress everyone at your next gathering!
How to Serve Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Southern baked mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that can be served in various ways. This creamy, cheesy dish complements many flavors and occasions, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Family Style
- Serve the mac and cheese directly from the baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves. This creates a relaxed atmosphere and encourages seconds!
Individual Servings
- For a more refined presentation, scoop portions into ramekins before baking. This method allows for personal servings that are easy to serve.
With Toppings
- Elevate your dish by offering toppings like crispy bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, or extra cheese. Guests can customize their portions for added flavor.
As a Main Dish
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal by adding a side salad. This balances the richness of the mac and cheese with fresh flavors.
At Potlucks
- Bring it to potlucks in a slow cooker to keep it warm throughout the event. This makes serving hassle-free and ensures everyone gets to enjoy it hot.
For Leftovers
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Pair with crusty bread for a quick snack or meal.
How to Perfect Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
To achieve the ultimate southern baked mac and cheese, consider these tips for an even creamier texture and richer flavor.
- Use Quality Cheese: Select high-quality cheeses like aged cheddar or artisanal mozzarella for a deeper flavor profile.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the macaroni is cooked just under al dente. It will absorb some sauce while baking without becoming mushy.
- Add More Cream: For extra creaminess, increase the amount of heavy cream or half-and-half in your recipe.
- Bake Covered First: Cover your baking dish with foil during the first half of baking to trap moisture, then uncover for browning.
- Let it Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps firm up the dish and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add an exciting kick!
Best Side Dishes for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Pairing side dishes with southern baked mac and cheese enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Collard Greens: These flavorful greens add a nutritious touch and balance out the richness of mac and cheese.
- Fried Chicken: A classic combination that brings crunchiness alongside creamy pasta for a satisfying bite.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements savory dishes perfectly; serve it warm with butter on top.
- Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds provide a crisp contrast that brightens your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds freshness, cutting through the heaviness of the cheese while providing crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer vibrant colors and flavors that enhance any meal’s appeal.
- Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad adds another layer of comfort food charm alongside baked mac and cheese.
- Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers are always a hit at gatherings, bringing additional protein while keeping things casual!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni fully before baking can lead to mushy results. Aim for al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland mac and cheese. Always sample your cheese mixture before adding the pasta.
- Skipping the cream cheese: Omitting cream cheese can make the dish less creamy. This ingredient adds richness that is hard to replicate with just shredded cheeses.
- Not letting it cool: Serving right out of the oven may cause the mac and cheese to be runny. Allow it to rest for a few minutes for better texture.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheeses can impact flavor and texture negatively. Opt for good quality cheeses for a more delicious outcome.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Ensure it’s cooled down before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Consider portioning it into smaller containers for easier thawing.
Reheating Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with aluminum foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Southern Baked Mac and Cheese that might help you perfect your dish.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well for that creamy texture.
What pasta works best for Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any pasta shape that holds sauce well, like shells or cavatappi.
How do I know when my mac and cheese is done baking?
Look for bubbly cheese on top with a golden brown crust. It should be firm yet creamy when scooped.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, store it in the fridge, then bake when ready.
Is there a vegetarian option?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth while keeping all other ingredients unchanged.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is not only creamy and cheesy but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or Thanksgiving, this recipe allows room for customization—try adding vegetables or meats if desired. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 16 people 1x
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, a dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. This creamy, cheesy delight is made with a luscious blend of five cheeses combined with tender pasta. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this easy-to-make recipe ensures that you can focus on enjoying great company instead of complicated cooking techniques. Simply mix the ingredients and bake for a rich, velvety casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 oz colby jack cheese
- 8 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp butter (for buttering the pan)
- 10 cups water mixed with chicken broth
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and butter a baking dish.
- Cook elbow macaroni in chicken broth until just under al dente; drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cheeses (reserve some for topping), cream cheese, heavy cream, and seasoning.
- Incorporate cooked pasta and beaten eggs into the cheese mixture.
- Pour into the baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
