Southern Mac and Cheese – Rich, Creamy, Cheesy, and Perfectly
Southern Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy baked pasta dish featuring tender macaroni coated in a luxurious blend of cheeses and baked until golden brown. Its comforting texture and bold cheesy flavor make it a favorite at family gatherings and holiday meals. Easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, this classic Southern recipe pairs well with a variety of main dishes. The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and creamy custard creates a perfectly balanced casserole. Every bite delivers warmth, comfort, and homemade goodness. It's a timeless dish that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Reserve 1 cup of cheese mixture for topping.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, butter, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix cooked macaroni with the remaining cheese blend.
- Pour the milk mixture over the macaroni and stir gently until evenly coated.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle reserved cheese on top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Sharp cheddar provides the signature Southern flavor.
- Whole milk creates a richer texture.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.
- Eggs help create the traditional custard-like consistency.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta before baking.
- Let the casserole rest before serving.
- Use quality cheese for the best results.
- The flavor improves as it cools slightly.