Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Description
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food beloved in the American South. It features elbow macaroni baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and often a blend of other cheeses, topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb crust. The dish is rich, cheesy, and creamy inside with a crunchy topping, making it a perfect side dish or even a main course for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks.
Ingredients
For the macaroni and cheese:
1 lb 450g) elbow macaroni
4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional for extra creaminess)
4 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for slight smoky flavor)
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, enhances cheese flavor)
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the topping:
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add macaroni and cook until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce (béchamel base)
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux (this thickens the sauce).
Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form.
Cook and stir until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, mustard powder, cayenne pepper.
Add cheddar, mozzarella (if using), and Parmesan cheese; stir until melted and smooth.
3. Combine pasta and cheese sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine evenly.
4. Assemble and bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a buttered 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Optional: Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve warm
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~450 kcal
Protein 20 g
Carbohydrates 40 g
Fat 22 g
Saturated Fat 13 g
Cholesterol 75 mg
Sodium 600 mg
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 7 g
Calcium 400 mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and exact quantities.
Time Estimate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time (pasta + sauce + baking): 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare everything up to assembling in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even Velveeta can be mixed for different textures and flavors.
Q: Is there a way to make it healthier?
A: Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese, and substitute some milk with unsweetened almond milk or skim milk. Also, try baking without breadcrumbs or using whole grain breadcrumbs.
Q: Can I freeze Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely after baking, portion it, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered in the oven.
Q: What can I serve with this?
A: This dish pairs well with fried chicken, collard greens, green beans, or cornbread for a true Southern feast.