Ultimate Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: Delicious Comfort!

Alright, mom tribe, gather ’round! Let’s talk about the ultimate comfort food: Southern baked mac and cheese. This isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s the kind that sticks to your ribs, warms your soul, and gets requested at every family gathering. For me, Southern baked mac and cheese has been a lifesaver on those nights when I’m staring blankly into the fridge, wondering how I’m going to feed my crew without ordering takeout… again.

I remember the first time I tried making Southern baked mac and cheese. It was a rainy Sunday, the kids were bouncing off the walls, and I was determined to create a meal that would bring some smiles to our faces. Little did I know that this creamy, cheesy creation would become a family staple. My youngest, bless his heart, declared it the “bestest dinner ever!” That’s when I knew I had a winner.

This Southern baked mac and cheese recipe is all about ease and real ingredients. None of us have time for complicated recipes, am I right? I’m talking about a homemade mac and cheese that’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for a potluck.

So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a kitchen newbie, I promise you can nail this Southern baked mac and cheese. Let’s get cooking, shall we? We’re in this together! 💕

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Okay, mamas, let’s gather our ingredients for this ridiculously delicious Southern baked mac and cheese. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand. I’ve got some sanity-saving swaps for you!

• 1 pound elbow macaroni: The classic choice, but feel free to use shells or cavatappi.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Because butter makes everything better, right?
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps create a creamy, dreamy sauce.
• 3 cups whole milk: Whole milk is key for that rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of color and smokiness.
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I like a sharp cheddar for maximum flavor in my cheddar mac and cheese.
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a lovely creaminess.
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese: This takes the flavor up a notch!
• 1/2 cup sour cream: This ingredient adds a subtle tang.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that extra cheesy goodness.

Trust me, this Southern baked mac and cheese ingredient list is short because mama doesn’t have time for fancy!

Mom Hack: No Gruyere? No problem! Use another cup of cheddar or Monterey Jack. This Southern baked mac and cheese recipe is forgiving. You can grab the cheeses at Target while doing your regular grocery run.

This Southern baked mac and cheese doesn’t have to break the bank. Buy cheese in blocks and shred it yourself – it’s cheaper!

Storage Wisdom: Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

My family loves when I add extra cheddar to this creamy mac and cheese. It’s their favorite! I will never turn down any cheese!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Alright, kitchen warriors, let’s get down to business and make some Southern baked mac and cheese! Don’t be intimidated – I’m here to guide you every step of the way. 💕 If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step is key!
2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain well. Be careful not to overcook the noodles! We want them al dente, because they will bake and can get mushy.
3. While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth. This is called a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. If you are looking for a thicker sauce, you can add more cheese.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Pour yourself a cup of coffee while you wait.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika. Now for the magic.
7. Add the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyere cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth. I like to start with the cheddar cheese and add the others gradually to give the homemade mac and cheese a unique flavor.
8. Stir in the sour cream and Parmesan cheese. Make sure everything is well combined.
9. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Ensure every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness! This is where the delicious creamy mac and cheese comes to life!
10. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. The kids are probably asking if dinner is ready, so here’s a trick: tell them it’ll be ready when it smells amazing!
12. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the Southern baked mac and cheese to set up a bit.

Here’s where I used to mess up my Southern baked mac and cheese: I didn’t drain the macaroni well enough! Make sure it’s super dry to prevent a watery sauce.

While your Southern baked mac and cheese is doing its thing, pour yourself that well-deserved coffee! You can check your social media, call your mom, or whatever brings you joy.

Don’t panic if your Southern baked mac and cheese looks a little uneven before baking. It all evens out in the oven!

How We Love to Eat This!

Okay, so you’ve got a pan of golden, bubbly Southern baked mac and cheese. Now what? Here’s how my family loves to devour this masterpiece!

The kids devour this Southern baked mac and cheese when I serve it with steamed broccoli. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and veggies! For a complete meal, you can visit Oven Baked Trout for other family favorites.

This Southern baked mac and cheese is perfect for those crazy weeknight dinners! It’s also a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and holiday gatherings. You can cut into squares and serve!

For presentation, I like to sprinkle a little extra paprika on top for a pop of color. And honestly, who can resist a big scoop of cheddar mac and cheese on their plate?

Leftover Alert: If you have any leftover Southern baked mac and cheese (which is rare in my house!), try making mac and cheese bites. Just cut into small squares, dip in breadcrumbs, and bake or fry until golden brown.

For a seasonal twist, try adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the Southern baked mac and cheese in the fall. It’s seriously delicious!

My neighbor, Sarah, always raves about my Southern baked mac and cheese. She says it’s the best she’s ever had! And now I am sharing the wealth with all of you!

You can serve it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheddar mac and cheese.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Alright, mamas, let’s tackle some common questions about this Southern baked mac and cheese recipe. I’ve been there, I get it!

Can my picky eater handle this Southern baked mac and cheese?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor are usually a hit with even the pickiest eaters. You can also sneak in some pureed vegetables for added nutrition.

What if I burn my Southern baked mac and cheese? (Asking for a friend… okay, it was me!)

Been there, done that! If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the baking dish with foil. And if the bottom burns, carefully scoop out the good stuff and transfer it to a new dish. Next time you’re looking for inspiration, search the web for “Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe | Sweet Tea + Thyme“!

Can I make this Southern baked mac and cheese ahead for meal prep?

You sure can! Assemble the Southern baked mac and cheese, but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use different cheeses in this homemade mac and cheese?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different combinations of cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan. You can also try adding a little smoked Gouda for a smoky flavor.

What kind of milk works best for Southern baked mac and cheese?

I recommend whole milk for the richest and creamiest texture. But you can use 2% milk in a pinch. For a gluten free cheese sauce, you can use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce instead of a roux.

How do I prevent my Southern baked mac and cheese from drying out?

Make sure to use enough cheese sauce and don’t overbake it. The creamy mac and cheese should be bubbly and golden brown, but still slightly moist.

Can I add a topping to my Southern baked mac and cheese?

Yes! A breadcrumb topping is a great way to add some texture and flavor. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking. You can also add some crumbled bacon or cooked sausage. If you’re still craving more, “Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese – Basil And Bubbly” can help!

Remember, there is no right or wrong when it comes to cooking. Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to your liking.

Final Thoughts:

This Southern baked mac and cheese isn’t just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. It reminds me of family dinners, potlucks with friends, and those cozy nights when all you want is comfort food. It’s special to my family because it’s a dish we all enjoy together, and it brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

Here are a few Southern baked mac and cheese Mom Hacks that have saved my sanity:

• Make a double batch and freeze half for a future meal.
• Use pre-shredded cheese to save time.
• Add a side of fruit or veggies for a balanced meal.

Here are a few variations of this recipe:

1. Buffalo chicken mac and cheese with chicken and ranch!
2. Lobster mac and cheese for a seafood dish!
3. Taco mac and cheese for spice!

My oldest loves the classic cheddar mac and cheese, while my youngest prefers it with extra cheese. My husband is a fan of the breadcrumb topping. Make sure to check Southern Baked Mac and Cheese – Immaculate Bites for more inspiration!

I hope you love this Southern baked mac and cheese as much as we do. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! For another cozy family meal, check out this Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake.

You’ve got this, mama! Go forth and create some mealtime magic with Southern baked mac and cheese. 💕

 

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