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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

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This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, and loaded with layers of gooey cheese. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar, creamy milk, and a touch of seasoning, this classic comfort food is a must-have for Sunday dinners, holidays, and cookouts!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup evaporated milk (adds extra richness)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, enhances flavor)

For the Cheese Blend:

  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Topping (Optional):

  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Cook the pasta:

    • Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
    • Drain and toss with 2 tablespoons butter to prevent sticking.

  3. Make the cheese sauce:

    • In a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter.
    • Add milk, heavy cream, evaporated milk, eggs, and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard).
    • Stir constantly until warm, but do not let it boil.

  4. Layer the mac and cheese:

    • Spread half of the cooked pasta into the baking dish.
    • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheeses over the pasta.
    • Pour half of the milk mixture over the cheese.
    • Repeat with the remaining pasta, cheese, and milk mixture.

  5. Make the topping (optional):

    • Mix crushed Ritz crackers (or panko) with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.

  6. Bake:

    • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
    • Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  7. Serve & enjoy:

    • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Extra Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese.
  • Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Smoky Flavor: Use smoked gouda instead of mozzarella.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and bake when ready.

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