Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with the rich, creamy, and utterly nostalgic comfort of Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. This isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s a soulful, oven-baked classic that’s as welcome at Sunday dinner as it is on a holiday table. With a golden, bubbling top and layers of custardy, cheesy goodness beneath, this recipe is a heartfelt tribute to Southern kitchens everywhere. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, one bite of this Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole will transport you to pure comfort food heaven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients—each one chosen for a reason! From the sharp cheddar to the creamy custard base, everything plays a crucial part in delivering that iconic flavor and texture we all crave.
- Elbow macaroni (2 cups): The classic choice for soaking up all that delicious cheese sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds rich flavor and helps form the perfect roux for a smooth sauce.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Works with the butter to create a thick base that keeps the sauce creamy, not runny.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Delivers a creamy texture and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds an extra layer of indulgence and helps give the casserole its signature custard-like texture.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 1/2 cups, divided): The backbone of flavor—sharp cheddar gives the dish its tangy bite and gooey melt.
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese (1/2 cup): Rounds out the sauce with a mild, buttery finish.
- Large eggs, lightly beaten (2): These are the secret to that wonderful, sliceable, Southern-style custard texture.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the savory flavors—season generously!
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Lends depth and just a hint of warmth to the dish.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle aromatic richness without overpowering the cheese.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): The finishing touch for color and a hint of smoky flavor.
- Dry mustard (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Gives the cheese sauce a little kick and makes the cheddar really pop.
- Butter for greasing the baking dish: Keeps the pasta from sticking and adds a little extra richness to those crispy edges.
How to Make Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish—don’t skip this step! It’s what helps give those scrumptious, buttery edges that everyone fights over. Set your dish aside so you’re ready once the macaroni and cheese mixture comes together.
Step 2: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook it just until al dente, following your package’s directions. The pasta will keep cooking in the oven, so you want it tender but still with a slight bite. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1–2 minutes to cook off any raw flavor—this is your roux. Next, slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens just a bit, about 5 minutes. The result? A luscious, velvety base that’s ready for cheese.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Eggs for That Signature Custard
Remove your pan from the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese plus all of the Colby Jack. Mix until smooth and glossy. Let everything cool slightly, then whisk in your beaten eggs. This is the Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole magic trick: eggs set the dish into a creamy, sliceable casserole instead of a loose bake. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dry mustard (if using) until fully combined.
Step 5: Mix, Assemble, and Top with Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with your cheesy sauce and stir thoroughly—it should look rich and thick, not soupy. Pour everything into your buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese; this creates that irresistible golden crust everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is bubbling and beautifully golden. If you like an extra-crispy topping, broil it for the last 2 minutes (just keep a close eye on it!). Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes—this helps the casserole set so you can serve perfect, cheesy squares of Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole.
How to Serve Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of paprika, a scattering of fresh chopped parsley, or a handful of crispy fried onions can add a pop of color and flavor right before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a drizzle of hot sauce or a crack of black pepper, too. This Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole loves a little extra flair!
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with nearly everything. Classic Southern choices include collard greens, fried chicken, or barbecue ribs. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for color and crunch. It’s the ultimate side—but it never minds being the star of your plate!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole straight from the baking dish for easy, family-style comfort. Or, portion it into ramekins for individual servings—perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings. For a playful twist, cut into bite-size cubes and serve with toothpicks as a savory appetizer at your next get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a dream for meal preppers or next-day lunches.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your casserole, let it cool thoroughly before wrapping it well with plastic and then foil (or use a freezer-safe container). Label, date, and freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat following the instructions below for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat leftovers in a 325°F oven (covered with foil) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For individual portions, the microwave works in a pinch—just add a splash of milk to keep things creamy and heat in 30-second bursts.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Colby Jack are traditional and give Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole its signature taste, you can play around with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a hint of smoked cheese. Mixing up the cheese blend can put your own spin on a beloved classic.
Why add eggs to a baked mac and cheese?
Eggs are the special ingredient that transforms a regular macaroni and cheese into a true casserole. They bind everything together, creating that creamy, custard-like center unique to Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. Don’t worry—your casserole won’t taste “eggy,” just deliciously rich and sliceable!
How do I prevent my casserole from becoming dry?
The key is to pull your casserole out of the oven when the center is just set and the edges are golden and bubbling. Also, make sure not to overbake it, and always start with al dente pasta. Using both milk and cream keeps things extra creamy, so your Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole stays luscious, not dry.
Can I prep this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake as instructed (add a few extra minutes if you’re baking it cold from the fridge). Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole was made for make-ahead planning, making holidays and gatherings much less hectic.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni and swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Everything else stays the same, so you can enjoy a gluten-free Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole that tastes just as comforting and delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe with soul, flavor, and true down-home comfort, it doesn’t get better than Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. Whether you’re bringing it to a gathering or savoring leftovers the next day, each bite promises warmth and nostalgia. Give it a try—you just might find it becomes your own family’s newest tradition!
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Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting family meal, this dish is a classic favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Cheese Mixture:
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard (optional)
Additional:
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk and cream, stir in cheeses until melted, then add seasonings and eggs.
- Combine and bake: Mix the macaroni with the cheese sauce, pour into the baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest before serving.
Notes
- For an extra-crispy topping, broil for the last 2 minutes.
- Add crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs for extra texture.
- Southern mac and cheese is custardy due to the eggs—don’t skip this step!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
