Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

If there’s one dish that never fails to make my heart skip a beat, it’s Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. Creamy, unapologetically cheesy, and crowned with a golden, bubbling crust, this classic comfort food is the star of every Southern table. Whether it’s a holiday, a Sunday supper, or just a Tuesday night craving, this version packs bold flavor, hints of smokiness, and the kind of gooey, stringy magic that makes every forkful unforgettable. Get ready to discover why this Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is about to become your new favorite guilty pleasure!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese lies in the way just a few good ingredients transform into something magical. Each one plays a special role, bringing out richness, creaminess, or just enough of a savory kick to keep things exciting.

• Butter (for the pan): Prevents sticking and adds a subtle layer of richness to every slice.
• Elbow macaroni: The ultimate pasta shape for trapping cheese, keeping every bite perfectly saucy.
• Chicken broth: Cooking pasta in broth adds flavor from the very start, making the noodles anything but boring.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Brings that classic tangy bite and gorgeous melted texture.
• Colby jack cheese: For extra meltiness and a pretty marbled finish on top.
• Part-skim mozzarella cheese: Delivers unbelievable stretch and creamy texture without overwhelming richness.
• American cheese: The secret weapon for super-smooth, ultra-creamy sauce.
• Cream cheese: Rounds everything out with a gentle tang and silkiness.
• Half and half: Makes the sauce luscious without becoming too heavy.
• Heavy cream: Delivers a velvety finish for an indulgently rich bite.
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Keeps all that cheese in check and balances flavors.
• Smoked paprika: Brings a smoky kick and that signature toasty-red color.
• Garlic powder: Adds subtle depth that keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Onion powder: Boosts savory notes without overpowering the dish.
• Mustard powder: Brightens things up and helps cut through the richness of all that cheese.
• Eggs: Binds everything together for beautifully sliceable servings.

How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

First things first: butter your chosen casserole or baking dish generously. This does more than keep the pasta from sticking—it also adds a touch of flavor along the edges and helps you serve those gorgeous squares with ease. Set your buttered dish aside and preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) so it’s ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Grab a large pot and fill it halfway with chicken broth (or water as a backup). Bring it to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. The secret here: cook the pasta just until barely al dente, since it’ll finish in the oven. This means no mushy noodles—just the perfect, slightly toothsome bite every time. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Mix Up the Cheesiest Sauce

In a large bowl, it’s time to create the soul of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: the cheese sauce. Combine the half and half, heavy cream, half of the cheddar, half of the Colby jack, all the mozzarella, every cube of American cheese, and that velvety warmed cream cheese. Grab your spoon and stir well—this is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 4: Season and Blend

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir, taste, and adjust the seasoning to your liking (but remember: cheese brings plenty of salt, so go easy at first). Now fold in the cooked macaroni and the eggs, turning everything until each noodle is coated in luscious, seasoned cheese.

Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Pour that creamy, cheesy macaroni mixture into your prepared dish. Spread it out evenly so every corner gets its fair share of cheesy goodness—no dry edges allowed! Smooth the top gently with your spoon or spatula.

Step 6: Add the Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Colby jack cheese over the top for a crust that’s melty, golden, and a little bit dramatic. For bonus points, add another dusting of smoked paprika. This creates an irresistibly pretty color and a hint of extra smokiness.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your Southern Baked Mac and Cheese into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, deeply golden crust that promises plenty of crispy-tender contrast. Resist the urge to overbake, or your mac will lose its perfect creaminess!

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, give your masterpiece a five-minute breather. This lets everything set up just enough for easy slicing, while keeping the inside warm and oozy. Serve up generous helpings while it’s hot and marvel at that stretchy, creamy cheese pull.

How to Serve Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

The final touch is all about contrast and color. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a dusting more of smoked paprika, or even a handful of crisp crumbled bacon can make your Southern Baked Mac and Cheese look as vibrant as it tastes. Sometimes, I’ll even add a handful of scallions for a little bite!

Side Dishes

This mac is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it shines alongside dishes like collard greens, fried chicken, roasted veggies, or even a fresh green salad. The creamy richness pairs beautifully with tangy or spicy sides that keep your meal balanced and exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks and parties, scoop Southern Baked Mac and Cheese into individual ramekins or muffin cups before baking for cute, portable portions. For a Southern bistro vibe, serve slices alongside barbecued ribs or brisket, piled high and ready for a crowd. Or just grab your favorite casserole dish and let everyone dive in family-style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow resist finishing the whole pan, leftover Southern Baked Mac and Cheese keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Let it cool fully before wrapping up to lock in moisture and flavor.

Freezing

To freeze, let the mac and cheese cool completely, then transfer to a tight-sealing freezer-safe container. You can freeze in individual portions or as a whole casserole. It’s best enjoyed within two months, and defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat Southern Baked Mac and Cheese in a preheated oven at 325 degrees F, covered with foil to recharge its creaminess and avoid drying out. A quick splash of milk or cream stirred in before baking revives the saucy magic. The microwave works for quick lunches, but the oven delivers the best crust!

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While the combination in this recipe gives that signature Southern Baked Mac and Cheese flavor, you can experiment with gouda, Monterey jack, pepper jack, or gruyère for fun twists. Just stick to good melting cheeses for that dreamy creaminess.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

Look for a deeply golden top with bubbling edges. The cheese layer should be completely melted and just starting to brown. Thirty-five minutes is usually perfect, but keep an eye on it the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.

Is it necessary to use eggs?

Eggs help set the casserole so you can cut neat slices, but you can leave them out if you prefer a looser, scoopable mac. It’ll be extra creamy, just a little less firm!

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed so it comes out hot and bubbly for your guests.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Oven reheating is your best friend: cover the mac and cheese with foil and warm at 325 degrees F until hot throughout. If it seems dry, add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream and gently stir before heating.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about making Southern Baked Mac and Cheese at home—that irresistible golden crust, gooey center, and deep cheesy flavor always bring people together around the table. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try, share it with your loved ones, and maybe even start your own tradition. Trust me: one bite and you’ll see why it’s a true classic!

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