Southern Baked Mac & Cheese

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Who doesn't love a warm and gooey mac and cheese straight out of the oven?

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Southern Baked Mac & Cheese
Prep
15 min
Total
50 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a large, deep baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it is just al dente.

  3. Drain the macaroni, rinse it with cold water, and set it aside.

  4. In a large bowl (or the same pot used to cook the pasta), combine the cooked pasta with butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese.

  5. Add half of the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the Colby-cheddar cheese blend over the pasta mixture, then add another layer of pasta (similar to making a lasagna).

  6. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs and milk together, then pour the mixture evenly over the pasta.

  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 to 35 minutes. Be careful not to overbake! The dish may be slightly jiggly when removed from the oven.

  8. Turn on the oven's broiler. Top the dish with the remaining cheddar cheese (you can also add a little more Colby jack if desired) and broil until golden. The dish will firm up as it cools.

About this recipe

Southern Baked Mac & Cheese: A Cheesy Delight

Who doesn't love a warm and gooey mac and cheese straight out of the oven? It's the ultimate comfort food, and when it's made the Southern way, it's a cheesy delight that can't be beaten. In this article, we'll dive into the world of Southern baked mac and cheese and discover what makes it so special. So, grab your fork and get ready to dig in!

The Secret to Southern Mac & Cheese

What sets Southern mac and cheese apart from the rest? It's all about the cheese! Southern mac and cheese is known for its rich and creamy texture, thanks to a combination of cheeses that are melted together to create a smooth and velvety sauce. The classic blend of cheddar and mozzarella is often used, but some adventurous cooks like to add a touch of Gruyere or even blue cheese for an extra punch of flavor.

Another secret to Southern mac and cheese is the addition of a breadcrumb topping. This gives the dish a satisfying crunch and adds an extra layer of texture. It's like a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite!

Making the Perfect Southern Mac & Cheese

Creating the perfect Southern mac and cheese is all about balance. You want a sauce that's creamy and flavorful, but not too heavy. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve mac and cheese perfection:

Step 1Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta until it's al dente. You don't want it to be too soft, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 2Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Then, it's time to add the cheese! Stir in your chosen cheeses until they melt into a creamy sauce.

Step 3Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce is ready, add it to the cooked pasta and stir until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 4Top it Off

Sprinkle a generous amount of breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese, creating a deliciously crispy crust. You can also add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for good measure.

Step 5Bake to Perfection

Pop your mac and cheese into a preheated oven and bake until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!

The Cheesy Conclusion

Southern baked mac and cheese is a dish that brings people together. It's warm, comforting, and oh-so-cheesy. Whether you're enjoying it at a family gathering or treating yourself to a solo indulgence, Southern mac and cheese is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, grab a plate, dive in, and savor every bite of this Southern delicacy. Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use different types of cheese in my Southern mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Southern mac and cheese is all about experimenting with flavors. Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses to create a unique and delicious dish.

Can I make Southern mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare your mac and cheese up until the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake it as directed.

Can I freeze Southern mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze Southern mac and cheese. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Can I add vegetables or meat to my Southern mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked bacon, diced ham, or even some sautéed vegetables to your mac and cheese for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Can I make Southern mac and cheese without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can omit the breadcrumbs if you prefer a smoother, creamier mac and cheese. The breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch, but it's not essential to the dish.

How long does it take to bake Southern mac and cheese?

Generally, Southern mac and cheese takes about 25-30 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on it, and once the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling, it's ready to be devoured.

Can I make Southern mac and cheese in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply follow the steps to make the cheese sauce, cook the pasta separately, and then combine everything in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, until the cheese is melted and the flavors are well-combined.

Can I add spices or herbs to my Southern mac and cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to enhance the flavor of your mac and cheese. Some popular choices include paprika, garlic powder, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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