Description
This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy comfort food classic featuring elbow macaroni baked in a luscious blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Topped with a golden, crispy layer of melted cheese, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, and cozy Sunday dinners, delivering the ultimate cheesy indulgence.
Ingredients
Macaroni
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
Dairy & Eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
Seasonings
- ½ tsp salt (to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika or Cajun seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente, then drain well.
- Mix wet ingredients and seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Add butter and cheese: Stir the melted butter into the milk mixture, then fold in half of the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Combine macaroni with cheese sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir thoroughly to evenly coat the pasta.
- Assemble in baking dish: Pour the coated macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Add optional seasoning: For extra flavor and color, sprinkle paprika or Cajun seasoning over the cheese topping if desired.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Rest and serve: Remove from oven and let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving for neat, clean portions.
Notes
- For an extra creamy texture, mix in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce before baking.
- To achieve a crispier top crust, broil the dish for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which can cause the sauce to become grainy due to anti-caking agents.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Boiling and Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
