Description
Classic Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese features tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and mozzarella, then baked to golden perfection with a bubbly, cheesy crust. This comforting dish is perfect as a hearty side or main at any family meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg (optional, for firmer texture)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, ensuring no raw flour taste remains.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 5 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Seasonings: Remove the sauce from heat, then stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until the cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
- Temper Egg (Optional): In a small bowl, beat the egg, then whisk in a few tablespoons of the hot cheese sauce to temper it. Gradually stir the egg mixture back into the cheese sauce to avoid curdling and to achieve a firmer texture.
- Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni ensuring each pasta piece is well coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set before serving, ensuring creamy but sliceable portions.
Notes
- For an extra-crispy topping, broil the dish for 2 to 3 minutes after baking until golden and crunchy.
- You can add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking to add crunch.
- This classic dish pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, collard greens, or barbecue for a traditional Southern meal.
