Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Hey y’all! If you’re craving classic comfort food that’s packed with creamy, cheesy goodness, Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is just what you need. With its rich layers, golden baked crust, and ooey-gooey interior, it’s the ultimate side for family dinners, holidays, and potlucks alike. Get your taste buds ready—let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

• Ultra-creamy and decadently cheesy, with a golden, crunchy top.
• Perfect make-ahead dish for holidays, Sunday suppers, or casual gatherings.
• Simple, straight-forward ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Customizable to fit your favorite cheeses or add-ins.
• Kid-approved and always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked, about 8 oz)
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Directions

Prep and Boil the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until just al dente (do not overcook).
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce Base

4. In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, eggs, melted butter, ground mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

Layer and Assemble

5. Add cooked macaroni to the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour the milk mixture over the macaroni.
7. Add 2 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and all of the Colby Jack cheese. Gently stir to combine and evenly distribute cheese.
8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Bake to Perfection

9. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
10. Remove and let rest for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes for Success

• Shred your own cheese for the creamiest, meltiest result (pre-shredded can be drier).
• Use evaporated milk for extra richness and that signature Southern custard texture.
• Letting your baked mac and cheese rest before serving helps set the delicious layers.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a flavorful heat.
• Three Cheese Blend: Mix in mozzarella and gouda for an even gooier cheese pull.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle with buttery breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for added texture.

Required Equipment

• Large pot
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave in short bursts until warmed through.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Ideas

• Serve alongside crispy fried chicken or barbecue ribs for the ultimate Southern meal.
• Goes great with collard greens, cornbread, or a simple green salad.
• Perfect for potlucks, holiday feasts, or family reunions.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Do not overcook the pasta—slightly undercooked macaroni keeps its shape when baked.
• Let the casserole sit 10 minutes after baking so it sets up and slices neatly.
• Experiment with cheese combos, but always include sharp cheddar for the classic Southern flavor.

FAQs: Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if cold.

Can I freeze baked macaroni and cheese?

Absolutely. After baking and cooling, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, covered, at 325°F until warmed through.

What cheeses work best for Southern mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is essential, but mixing in mozzarella, Colby Jack, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack gives extra flavor and meltiness to the dish.

Recipe Summary

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

★★★★★ 4.90 from 15 ratings

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

yield: 6 servings

prep: 20 mins

cook: 45 mins

total: 50 mins

A classic Southern comfort dish made with tender macaroni noodles, creamy cheese sauce, and a golden, baked cheesy topping. Perfect for family gatherings and holiday dinners.

🖨️ Print Pin Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. 2
   Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. 3
   In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling.
4. 4
   Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. 5
   Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Add sour cream, then fold in the cooked macaroni until well coated.
6. 6
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool briefly before serving.

CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO ↑

Approximate Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving

Calories: 530 caloriescal

Protein: 18 gg

Fat: 32 gg

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 0mg

Potassium: 0mg

Total Carbs: 44 gg

Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 0g

Net Carbs: 0g

Vitamin A: 0

Vitamin C: 0mg

Calcium: 0mg

Iron: 0mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

Did you make this recipe?

Please consider Pinning it!!