Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With a rich blend of cheeses and warm spices, this dish bakes to a bubbly golden perfection that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked macaroni
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
• 1 cup half and half (or ½ cup cream and ½ cup milk)
• ½ to 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ to 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded jack cheese (any preferred type)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and continue whisking for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the evaporated milk a little at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the half and half slowly, maintaining a smooth mixture. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
5. Step 5: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 2 minutes.
6. Step 6: Add the shredded cheeses, reserving some for the topping. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Step 7: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
8. Step 8: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly on top.
9. Step 9: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of cheeses for complexity, such as gouda or Monterey jack for a different twist.
• For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
• Try adding cooked bacon or sautéed onions for added flavor and texture.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level to your preference.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese sauce separate.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use shells, penne, or any small pasta shape that holds cheese sauce well.

Is evaporated milk necessary?

Evaporated milk adds a rich creaminess but can be substituted with regular milk or cream mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 123 reviews

This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese combines tender macaroni with a rich, creamy cheese sauce infused with aromatic spices and Creole seasoning for a flavorful twist. Baked until golden and bubbly, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 ounces uncooked macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
• 1 cup half and half (or ½ cup cream and ½ cup milk)
• ½ – 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ – 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, grated
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• ½ cup jack cheese (any jack cheese you prefer)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Cook macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until fully combined. Cook the mixture for about one minute to eliminate the raw flour taste, whisking continuously.
3. Add Dairy: Gradually add evaporated milk in small increments while whisking to avoid lumps. Then add the half and half slowly. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Season the Sauce: Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, Creole seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Melt the Cheese: Add the mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and jack cheeses to the sauce, reserving some cheese for topping later. Stir continuously until all the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
7. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

Notes

• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Adjust Creole seasoning and cayenne pepper to control the heat level as desired.
• Half and half can be substituted with a mixture of cream and milk for richer sauce.
• For a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: Southern baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked macaroni and cheese, comfort food, cheesy casserole