This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and so comforting! With a crunchy topping and gooey goodness inside, it’s the perfect side dish or main meal for any gathering.
You know it’s a hit when everyone’s lining up for seconds—who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving mine with a sprinkle of paprika for a little extra flair! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta choice for mac and cheese, but feel free to try cavatappi, shells, or even penne if you’re looking for something different!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives robust flavor. If you prefer milder cheese, try medium cheddar or even Colby Jack. For a twist, add some blue cheese or pepper jack for extra zest.
Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: This combo creates a rich sauce, but you can use half-and-half if you want it a bit lighter. For a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk can work, just make sure it’s unsweetened.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a delightful crunch. Regular breadcrumbs can be used instead, but I love how panko makes it extra crispy. A sprinkle of crushed Ritz crackers is also a fun alternative!
What’s the Best Way to Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The key to a creamy cheese sauce is to make a roux first. Here’s how:
- Melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour until it’s bubbly and turns golden—this usually takes about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add in the milk and cream while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming. Keep whisking for 6-8 minutes until it thickens enough to coat a spoon.
Patience is essential! Too much heat can scorch the sauce. If it thickens too much, just add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
How to Make Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing pan)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese will take about 15 minutes for prep and 30-35 minutes for baking, bringing your total time to around 50 minutes! Perfect for a delightful side dish or a cozy main meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 9×13 inch baking dish and butter it up to prevent sticking. Set this aside while you prepare the mac and cheese.
2. Cook the Elbow Macaroni:
Fill a large pot with water and add a good pinch of salt, then bring it to a boil. Toss in the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and looks a little golden—this is called a roux! Then, slowly add the milk and heavy cream while continuing to whisk to keep it smooth. Cook this mixture for around 6-8 minutes until it thickens and is ready to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Season and Add Cheese:
Take the sauce off the heat and mix in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the optional smoked paprika for a dash of flavor. Now, gradually stir in 3 cups of shredded cheddar and 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella. Keep stirring until everything is nice and melted and the sauce is super smooth.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, gently folding it until every pasta shape is deliciously coated with that creamy goodness.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and the remaining cheddar and mozzarella. Sprinkle this cheesy breadcrumb mixture on top of the mac and cheese.
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is bubbling hot. Once done, take it out, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or dried herbs on top for a lovely finish. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting bowl of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, so make sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything ahead! Assemble the dish without baking it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if necessary to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Mac and Cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or herbs for added flavor. Just be cautious not to overload it, as it can affect the creamy texture.
