Macaroni and cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a comfort food that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and home-cooked goodness. Southern-style macaroni and cheese, in particular, stands out for its rich and creamy texture, bold flavors, and the perfect balance of cheese. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy meal at home, a homemade mac and cheese recipe baked to perfection is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps to make the best southern-style macaroni and cheese. From choosing the right cheese to incorporating soul food elements that take the dish to the next level, we’ve got you covered. Prepare to be amazed by this mouth-watering Southern Mac and Cheese recipe!
The Secret Behind a Good Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
What makes a good macaroni and cheese recipe? The answer lies in the right combination of ingredients, technique, and patience. While there are many variations of mac and cheese, the Southern version stands apart due to its extra indulgent qualities. Southern Mac and Cheese is typically made with a blend of sharp cheddar cheese and other creamy cheeses, often baked for a rich and golden crust on top.
If you want to create the perfect Southern-style mac and cheese, you must pay attention to a few key elements:
- The Right Pasta: Macaroni is the traditional pasta used in this dish, but it’s essential to pick pasta that holds the cheese sauce well. Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other types like cavatappi or shells.
- The Cheese: A good macaroni and cheese recipe must have the perfect combination of cheeses. The Southern-style version often includes sharp cheddar for its tangy flavor, combined with mild cheeses like mozzarella and cream cheese for creaminess.
- Evaporated Milk: For that smooth, rich texture, many Southern recipes use evaporated milk instead of regular milk. Evaporated milk has a concentrated flavor and thicker consistency, adding depth to the sauce.
- Baking the Dish: Southern Mac and Cheese is traditionally baked, which allows the cheese to meld together beautifully, creating a delicious golden crust on top.
- Seasonings and Extras: Southern Mac and Cheese isn’t just about the cheese—it’s also about the seasoning. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder bring out the flavor, while a pinch of paprika adds a hint of color.
Now, let’s dive into the details of making the best Southern-style macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients for Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese
Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients for the best mac n cheese recipe. Here’s a list of what you’ll need for a truly indulgent, soul-satisfying dish:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or any pasta you prefer)
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 ounces)
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, but it adds flavor depth)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (for garnish and a pop of color)
Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Mac N Cheese Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking. Follow these simple steps to make your homemade mac and cheese recipe baked to perfection.
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water. Cook it according to the package directions, making sure the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking in the cheese sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
To make the creamy cheese sauce, you’ll need to create a roux (a mixture of fat and flour). Start by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps eliminate the raw taste of the flour.
Slowly add the evaporated milk and whole milk to the roux while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should have a smooth, velvety consistency.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once the milk mixture has thickened, it’s time to add the cheeses. Stir in the cream cheese first, followed by the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. At this point, add the mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. This is where you can customize the flavor to suit your tastes.
Step 4: Temper the Eggs
To ensure that the eggs don’t scramble in the cheese sauce, you’ll need to temper them. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk them lightly. Take a small amount of the hot cheese sauce and whisk it into the eggs to gradually raise their temperature. Once the eggs are tempered, slowly pour them into the cheese sauce while stirring constantly.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Now it’s time to combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Add the drained pasta to the saucepan with the sauce, and stir until the macaroni is fully coated with the cheesy goodness. This is the base for your Southern Mac and Cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Mac and Cheese
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top for a cheesy, golden crust. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of paprika over the top for added flavor and color.
Bake the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should have formed a nice, crispy crust, while the inside remains creamy and indulgent.
Step 7: Let It Rest
After baking, allow the mac and cheese to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your homemade Southern Mac and Cheese alongside your favorite dishes, such as fried chicken, collard greens, or cornbread. This rich and creamy macaroni and cheese is a soul food favorite that will impress your family and friends every time.
Tips for the Best Macaroni and Cheese
To make your Southern Mac and Cheese even better, try these helpful tips:
- Use Full-Fat Cheese and Dairy: For the richest and creamiest results, opt for full-fat cheeses and whole milk. These ingredients will give your mac and cheese the luxurious texture it deserves.
- Mix and Match Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is the star of the show, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, gouda, or provolone to add more complexity and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Baking: While stovetop mac and cheese is delicious, baking it adds that signature golden, crispy top that makes Southern mac and cheese so irresistible.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the mac and cheese the day before, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready to serve. This can make entertaining and meal prep a lot easier.
- Add Some Extras: Want to make your mac and cheese even more special? Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even a little hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This Southern Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and golden, baked crust, it’s the kind of dish that will leave you craving more. The combination of cheddar cheese, evaporated milk, and the perfect blend of spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor that’s hard to beat.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this mac and cheese is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a hearty plate of Southern Macaroni and Cheese that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to share this homemade mac and cheese recipe with your loved ones—it’s the kind of dish that brings people together.
