If you are craving the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul and delights your taste buds, this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is the answer you’ve been looking for. Rich, creamy, and packed with sharp cheddar goodness, this baked macaroni and cheese has that perfect golden crust and a velvety interior that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that steals the spotlight at family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, bringing everyone together with its irresistible charm. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to classic in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work in harmony to create a masterpiece. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add depth of flavor, creamy texture, and that stunning golden color we all love.
- 4 cups dry elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape perfect for holding onto all that creamy cheese sauce.
- 3 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux for the cheese sauce.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce so it clings beautifully to every noodle.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides the creamy base that makes this dish so luscious.
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Bursting with bold, tangy flavor that makes this recipe truly unforgettable.
- 6 eggs: These bind the casserole for a custardy, firm texture after baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- For layering: 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided in half): Creates that irresistible cheesy crust you crave.
How to Make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden crust that makes Southern baked macaroni and cheese so special.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the 4 cups of elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta, then rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is key to preventing mushy noodles in the final dish.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Using the same pot, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter over low to medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking steadily to avoid lumps. Keep the heat low and continue stirring until the sauce thickens beautifully. Now, it’s time to stir in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and silky smooth. This cheese sauce is the heart and soul of the Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Remove the pot from heat and add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every noodle in creamy goodness. The combination of warm pasta and molten cheese sauce is already mouthwatering at this point!
Step 5: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 eggs with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture will add a velvety custard-like texture after baking, giving your macaroni and cheese that signature Southern baked firmness. Carefully stir this egg mixture into the macaroni and cheese sauce until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Layer the Macaroni and Cheese
Pour half of your macaroni and cheese mixture into a 13×9-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over this first layer to create extra cheesy pockets throughout the dish. Add the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture on top and finish by sprinkling the last 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese right over the surface. This layered cheese approach results in a spectacularly cheesy top crust once baked.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Cover your casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. Watch as the top turns a golden brown, perfectly toasted, and the center sets to a luscious custard-like texture. Insert a knife into the middle to check doneness — if no runny liquid appears, your Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is ready to dig in!
How to Serve Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish shines beautifully on its own, adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of smoked paprika on top can elevate its presentation and add a fresh twist. Crispy bacon bits or a scattering of toasted breadcrumbs also bring delightful texture contrast and extra flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe alongside tangy coleslaw, garlic sautéed greens, or a crisp garden salad. For a heartier meal, pair it with slow-cooked pulled pork or crispy fried chicken for a Southern feast that will have everyone raving.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, try serving this macaroni and cheese in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese for a personal golden crust. Or, transform leftovers into crispy fried mac and cheese bites perfect for parties or snacks. No matter how you present it, this recipe always steals the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and the texture creamy, ready to reheat whenever you need a comforting bite.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply cool it completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you want your cheesy comfort fix, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives the classic tangy depth, you can mix in cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a milder, creamier taste. Just ensure you use good melting cheeses to keep the texture smooth.
Do I have to use eggs in the Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?
The eggs are key to creating that firm, custardy texture after baking. Without them, the casserole might be too runny. If you want a different version, consider reducing milk slightly and baking uncovered for a crispy top instead.
Why should I rinse the cooked macaroni?
Rinsing stops the cooking process immediately and removes excess starch, which helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy or clumping together in the casserole.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to create the roux. Just keep an eye on the sauce consistency, as gluten-free flours can vary in thickening power.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for gentle heat. You could also mix in diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese to kick things up a notch while keeping the creamy texture intact.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is pure comfort food magic that brings warmth, smiles, and satisfied appetites to any table. Its creamy sauce, melty cheese layers, and satisfyingly golden crust are guaranteed to make it a new family favorite. Don’t hesitate to whip it up soon — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe features creamy, sharp cheddar cheese sauce combined with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, baked to a golden brown, cheesy perfection. A classic comfort food, this casserole offers rich flavors enhanced by a combination of melted cheese and eggs, making it the perfect hearty side or main dish for family gatherings or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Layering
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided in half)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the 4 cups of dry elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot used for pasta, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter over low to medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 3 minutes while stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Slowly whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, maintaining low heat and stirring until the mixture thickens without curdling. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained macaroni back into the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to coat all noodles evenly.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk 6 eggs with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir this egg mixture into the macaroni and cheese, ensuring a well-combined blend to help set the casserole when baked.
- Layer Macaroni: Pour half of the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 13×9-inch casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the layer. Add the remaining macaroni and cheese, then top with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheese for a rich cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to gently cook and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking an additional 15–20 minutes until the center is set, and the top is bubbling and golden brown.
- Check Doneness: Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean and no liquid oozes, the casserole is done and ready to serve.
- Serve and Store: Serve the macaroni and cheese warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bold, classic flavor.
- Rinsing pasta with cold water stops cooking and prevents mushiness.
- Whisk constantly when making the roux and adding milk to avoid lumps.
- The eggs help the casserole set firmly when baked, creating a creamy texture.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking uncovered.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
