This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! With a crispy topping that gives it a golden crust, it’s bound to make everyone smile.
Trust me, when you take a bite, you might just hear angels singing! 😂 I love serving it at family gatherings, where there’s never any left. It’s seriously that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is a staple for mac and cheese, but you can swap it for any pasta you like, such as shells or penne. Just make sure the pasta is small enough to hold onto the cheese sauce!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for that rich, tangy flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, you can use medium cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a twist.
Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: These create a creamy sauce, but you can lighten it up by using 2% milk instead of whole milk. Just remember, it will be less rich. For dairy-free options, consider almond or oat milk (and a plant-based butter).
Panko Bread Crumbs: These give a crunchy topping that you can replicate with regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or cornflakes.
How Do You Make the Cheese Sauce Creamy Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is crucial for this recipe. To avoid lumps, follow these steps:
- Make sure to whisk the flour and butter together well to create a smooth roux before adding any liquid.
- When you pour in the milk and cream, do it slowly while whisking constantly. This helps incorporate it without forming lumps.
- Don’t rush the thickening process! Cook it on medium heat, stirring often, until it coats the back of a spoon—this means it’s just right!
By following these tips, you’ll end up with a creamy sauce that’s perfect for your mac and cheese!
Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided: 3 cups for sauce, 1 cup for topping)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smoky flavor)
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious Southern Baked Mac and Cheese will take you about 15-20 minutes to prepare and then approximately 30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, butter a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches) to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—this usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Keep whisking constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly but not browned. Then, slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Combine Cheeses and Seasonings:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese along with the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Mix in the Pasta:
Now, take your drained macaroni and gently fold it into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well coated in that delicious creamy goodness.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into your prepared baking dish. It should look pretty awesome already!
7. Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the panko bread crumbs. Sprinkle this cheesy topping evenly over your mac and cheese mixture.
8. Bake It:
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you want that extra crispy top, you can switch to the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
9. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a little. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a nice pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy this classic Southern comfort dish warm and creamy with a perfectly crisp topping! It’s sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend for added flavor. Just remember to keep at least some cheddar for that classic taste!
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work just fine. For extra crunch, consider crushed crackers or even cornflakes for a unique topping.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, it may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven, covered with foil to keep it from drying out.
