Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese with Golden Cheddar Top
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. Rich, gooey cheese envelops perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a delectable golden cheddar crust that adds the perfect crunch. Ideal for family gatherings or as a cozy weeknight meal, this mac and cheese brings warmth and flavor to your dining table, making it a classic favorite in Southern cuisine.
This Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is more than just a dish—it's a celebration of comfort. Bring this classic to your table, and let the warm, cheesy goodness light up your meals.
The Essence of Comfort Food
There's nothing quite like a bowl of mac and cheese to wrap you in a cozy embrace. This Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is not just a dish; it's an experience that brings people together. With every bite, the rich and gooey cheese captures the essence of comfort food, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or casual dinners. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a celebration, this dish promises to deliver warmth and happiness.
Crafted with love, this macaroni masterpiece features a velvety cheese sauce that clings to each elbow noodle. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy components makes for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please anyone at the table. It’s a delightful reminder of family traditions and Southern hospitality, evoking memories of cozy meals shared with loved ones.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the many charms of this baked mac and cheese is its versatility. While it shines as a standalone dish, it can also serve as an excellent side for various meals. Picture it paired with juicy fried chicken or succulent barbecue ribs, where it complements the savory flavors beautifully. It's a dish that never goes out of style and can be enjoyed year-round, making it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and festive holiday feasts.
Not only is this Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese crowd-pleasing, but it is also easy to customize. Feel free to add in your favorite ingredients, whether it’s crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a touch of heat. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor each batch to your preferences and those of your guests.
Tips for the Perfect Bake
Achieving the ideal texture and richness in your mac and cheese comes down to a few key tips. First, ensure that you don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is the way to go. This helps maintain the integrity of the dish during baking and prevents mushiness. Second, when making the cheese sauce, be patient. Gradually adding the milk and cream into the flour and butter mix allows for a smoother, lump-free sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Also, don’t skimp on the cheese! Using a blend of both sharp and mild cheddars can elevate the flavor profile. If you want an extra crispy top, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones for a delightful crunch. And remember, letting the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set and makes serving easier.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Mac and Cheese
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation.
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
Bake the Dish
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving for the best flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover mac and cheese is a wonderful treat that you can easily store for later. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it will maintain its deliciousness for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portioning it into individual servings before freezing makes reheating a breeze.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating in the oven is the best method to preserve that creamy consistency. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover your dish with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems too thick.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your mac and cheese experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad. The crispiness of vegetables like spinach, kale, or mixed greens can balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette can also provide just the right amount of acidity to brighten the meal, making it all the more enjoyable.
For an added twist, serve mac and cheese in individual ramekins, topped with a sprig of fresh parsley for flair. This presentation not only looks appealing but also helps control portions, making it perfect for entertaining or everyday meals.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? Why not experiment with different cheese varieties? Gouda, Gruyère, or even a touch of blue cheese can add unique flavors to your baked mac and cheese. Mixing cheeses creates depth in taste, allowing for a gourmet twist on this comfort classic.
You can also explore different pasta shapes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, opt for shells, cavatappi, or even penne. Each shape will contribute a different texture and mouthfeel to the dish, ensuring that every bite is a delicious surprise.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese and store it in the fridge before baking. Just bake it right before serving.
→ What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
You can mix other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese with Golden Cheddar Top
Savor the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. Rich, gooey cheese envelops perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a delectable golden cheddar crust that adds the perfect crunch. Ideal for family gatherings or as a cozy weeknight meal, this mac and cheese brings warmth and flavor to your dining table, making it a classic favorite in Southern cuisine.
Created by: Chelsea Payne
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Mac and Cheese
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 500
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g