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Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 3 reviews
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 45-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Description

This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic with a blend of Colby, Monterey Jack, Velveeta, sharp cheddar, and smoked cheddar cheeses. The macaroni is cooked to just under al dente, combined with a rich milk and cream sauce fortified with eggs for a custardy texture, then baked until bubbly and golden. A flavorful, satisfying dish perfect as a hearty side or main.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Dairy & Cheese

  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • ½ cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup Colby & Monterey Jack cheese blend, shredded
  • 6-8 oz Velveeta cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup smoked cheddar cheese, shredded

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking your macaroni and cheese.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni until just al dente or slightly undercooked, following the package directions closely to avoid overcooking. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, and all cheeses except the smoked cheddar. Stir thoroughly to blend the cheeses into the milk mixture.
  4. Season and Taste: Season the milk and cheese mixture with salt and black pepper; optionally add onion powder or paprika. Taste and adjust seasonings to ensure a flavorful base.
  5. Add Eggs: Once satisfied with the seasoning, add the two eggs to the mixture and stir well until fully incorporated to create a rich custard base.
  6. Butter Baking Dish: Butter a 9x9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add richness.
  7. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Place the cooked macaroni in the prepared baking dish, then pour the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta, ensuring thorough coverage.
  8. Top with Cheese: Evenly distribute the smoked cheddar cheese on top of the macaroni and cheese. Optionally, sprinkle some extra Colby & Monterey Jack cheese and paprika or black pepper for color and flavor.
  9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. The top should be bubbly and slightly golden but not overbaked; it may jiggle slightly when removed.
  10. Cool and Set: Allow the macaroni and cheese to cool for 10 to 15 minutes in the baking dish to let it fully set, improving sliceability and flavor melding.
  11. Serve: Enjoy this rich, creamy Southern baked macaroni and cheese warm as a hearty comfort food side or main dish.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the macaroni before baking to avoid mushy texture.
  • Tasting and adjusting the cheese mixture seasoning before baking ensures a flavorful dish.
  • Velveeta adds creaminess; reduce if you prefer a firmer texture.
  • Letting the dish rest after baking helps it set perfectly.
  • Optional seasonings like paprika or onion powder can elevate the flavor.

Find it online: https://suerecipe.com/southern-baked-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/