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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://tastybella.com/southern-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/