Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, cheesy dish of Southern mac and cheese recipe. This recipe is baked to perfection, combining tender macaroni with layers of creamy, melty cheese for the ultimate side dish or main course.
“I grew up in the South, where Sunday dinners weren’t complete without a bubbling pan of baked mac and cheese. This recipe keeps that tradition alive, with simple steps any home cook can follow.”
My Experience Making This Southern Classic
The first time I made Southern mac and cheese, I underestimated how much cheese it would need — spoiler: there’s no such thing as too much cheese! Over time, I learned the secret is in the cheese blend and baking it just long enough for a golden crust without drying it out.
Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Baking dish
- 1 Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Substitutions:
- Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version
- Swap Colby Jack for mozzarella for extra creaminess
- Try plant-based milk for a dairy-light option
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make a roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly.
- Add milk slowly while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Add cheeses (reserve some cheddar for topping) and stir until melted into a smooth sauce.
- Combine macaroni and sauce in a large bowl. Mix until all pasta is coated.
- Transfer to baking dish, sprinkle with reserved cheese and Parmesan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
Notes
- Let rest before serving for best flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses for richer taste.
My Top 7 Tips for a Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Cook pasta al dente – It will soften further in the oven.
- Blend cheeses – A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy cheese gives depth.
- Warm your milk – Prevents lumps in the sauce.
- Bake uncovered – For a perfect golden crust.
- Rest before serving – Cheese sets for better scooping.
- Follow safe food storage guidelines – Check USDA tips for keeping leftovers safe.
Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe Variations to Try
- Three-Cheese Special – Add mozzarella for gooeyness.
- Spicy Kick – Mix in diced jalapeños or cayenne.
- Seafood Twist – Fold in cooked shrimp or crab meat.
- BBQ Style – Add pulled pork before baking.
- Veggie Loaded – Stir in roasted broccoli or spinach.
How to Store Your Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Refrigerator: Cool completely, store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Cover with foil, bake at 325°F until warmed through.
Troubleshooting
- Too Dry: Add 1/4 cup milk before reheating.
- Not Cheesy Enough: Mix in extra cheese before baking.
- Grainy Sauce: Avoid overheating cheese in sauce.
Perfect Pairings
- Southern fried chicken
- Collard greens
- Cornbread muffins
Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 17g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbs | 36g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Conclusion
This Southern mac and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and full of Southern charm. It’s the perfect side for holiday dinners, BBQs, or weeknight comfort meals.
If you love this dish, check out our Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Delicious and Comforting Classic for another irresistible cheesy favorite.
Explore more recipes here: SpoonnSpice
FAQs
What makes Southern mac and cheese different from other types?
Southern-style baked mac and cheese usually uses eggs and evaporated milk to create a rich, custardy texture—and it’s always baked, not just stirred on the stovetop.
How do I keep baked mac and cheese super creamy?
Use grated (not pre-shredded) cheese, toss pasta in butter, and bake just until golden to maintain creaminess.
What cheeses work best for Southern mac and cheese?
A sharp cheddar is a staple. You can also add mozzarella, Colby Jack, gouda, or mascarpone for extra creaminess.
Why use evaporated milk in mac and cheese?
Evaporated milk is thicker than regular milk. It gives the sauce a creamy richness with more protein and less fat.
Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready. Some versions can even be frozen for up to 2 months.
What pasta shape should I use?
While elbow macaroni is classic, shapes like shells or cavatappi hold cheese sauce brilliantly.
How do I avoid grainy sauce?
Melt in cheese slowly, add it in batches, and stir well to keep the sauce smooth.
Should I cover the dish while baking?
Start covered to prevent drying, then finish uncovered to develop a golden, crispy top.
Can I add extra flavorings or toppings?
Absolutely! Try creole seasoning, ground mustard, or grounded nutmeg for flavor—breadcrumbs and bacon also add great texture.
Who invented mac and cheese?
It’s unclear, but many credit James Hemings—Thomas Jefferson’s enslaved chef—for bringing the concept from France to early America.