Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe
Craving creamy, cheesy comfort food with a touch of Southern flair? This Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe is the ultimate baked side dish or main meal. Made with layers of cheddar, milk, and perfectly cooked macaroni, it’s rich, hearty, and full of Southern soul.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk constantly to create a smooth roux (about 1 minute).
Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, 3–5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese and all Colby Jack cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted.
Step 5: Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni in a baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Let cool slightly, then serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
Makes 6 servings
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 430
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 26g
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Not recommended for freezing due to cream separation.
Pairings/Suggestions
- Serve with fried chicken, BBQ ribs, or a fresh garden salad.
- Pairs beautifully with iced tea or lemonade.
Seasonal Relevance
This classic mac and cheese is perfect for holiday dinners, summer cookouts, and cozy fall evenings.
Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe
6
servings15
minutes25
minutes430
kcalSouthern Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food — rich, creamy, and loaded with layers of gooey cheese. This baked version features tender elbow macaroni smothered in a velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and warm Southern spices. Perfect as a main dish or a hearty side, this recipe brings homestyle flavor to your dinner table.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a kick
Directions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk constantly to create a smooth roux (about 1 minute).
- Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese and all Colby Jack cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni in a baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let cool slightly, then serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Video
Notes
- Southern Mac and Cheese is a classic soul food dish known for its rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture. Unlike boxed versions, this homemade recipe is baked to golden perfection with real cheese, milk, and buttery goodness. It’s a timeless favorite at family gatherings, holidays, and Sunday dinners.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.
Q2: Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely. Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a twist.
Q3: How do I keep it creamy and not dry?
Don’t overbake and use a mix of milk and cream for rich texture.
Conclusion
Southern Mac and Cheese is the soul food staple that never goes out of style. Creamy, cheesy, and oven-baked to perfection, this dish brings warmth and comfort to any table.
