Introduction
There is something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy dish straight from the oven. And when it comes to comfort food, few recipes deliver the same soul-satisfying goodness as Southern mac and cheese. This isn’t your everyday stovetop version that comes together in minutes with powdered cheese or a thin sauce. Southern baked mac and cheese is a tradition. It is thick, rich, creamy on the inside, and perfectly golden and slightly crispy on top.
Made with a combination of real cheeses, whole milk, butter, and eggs, this classic dish brings the flavors of Southern kitchens right to your table. Whether it’s the holidays, a family gathering, or a simple Sunday dinner, this recipe is always a hit. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it delivers.
In the South, mac and cheese is not just a side dish. It is a showstopper. It can stand on its own or pair beautifully with fried chicken, barbecue, or collard greens. This recipe stays true to the traditional Southern way of baking mac and cheese. It is hearty and full of flavor, and once you try it, you might never go back to the boxed kind.
Let’s walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips to personalize it, and everything else you need to know to make the best homemade Southern mac and cheese.
Ingredients Needed
To make an authentic Southern-style mac and cheese, you need the right mix of ingredients. The cheese is the star, but the supporting cast matters just as much. Whole milk and eggs add richness and structure, while butter and cream cheese create that silky texture we all love.
Here’s a breakdown of everything you need for this recipe:
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups (uncooked) | 400 |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | 300 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 400 |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 3 cups (shredded) | 960 |
| Colby Jack cheese | 1 cup (shredded) | 410 |
| Cream cheese | 4 ounces | 200 |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | 400 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 0 |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 5 |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 5 |
| Paprika (for topping) | 1/2 teaspoon | 3 |
Estimated Total Calories: Approximately 3223
Calories per Serving (8 servings): About 403
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking homemade Southern mac and cheese is easy when you break it down into simple steps. The process involves cooking the pasta, making the creamy cheese sauce, mixing it all together, and baking it until bubbly and golden.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook it until just tender or al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. You do not want to overcook it because it will continue to cook in the oven.
Make the cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Stir constantly to avoid burning the dairy.
Add your cheeses. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and Colby Jack cheese to the pot, reserving about half a cup of cheddar for topping later. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the sauce. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the mixture. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Combine eggs and pasta. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add the cheese sauce while whisking to temper the eggs. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer to the baking dish. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top along with a light dusting of paprika for color.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so it can set properly.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about homemade mac and cheese is how easy it is to make it your own. While the classic version is delicious as is, you can always personalize it depending on your taste and what you have on hand.
For a meaty twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken. If you want a smoky flavor, try adding smoked gouda or a hint of chipotle powder. You can make it spicy with diced jalapeños or hot sauce. For a crunchier top, mix breadcrumbs with a little butter and sprinkle them over the cheese before baking.
If you are looking for a healthier option, you can use lower-fat milk and cheese, although this may slightly affect the creaminess. Gluten-free pasta works well too if you want to avoid gluten.
Nutritional Information
Here is the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of Southern baked mac and cheese:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 403 |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Please note that actual nutritional values may vary depending on exact brands and measurements used.
Serving Suggestions
Southern mac and cheese is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and sides. For a classic Southern meal, serve it with crispy fried chicken or juicy barbecue ribs. It also goes great with greens like collards or green beans cooked with a bit of bacon or ham hock.
Add cornbread or soft dinner rolls on the side for an extra comforting touch. If you are serving it as part of a holiday spread, it holds its own next to dishes like candied yams, stuffing, or roast turkey. It can even be served as a main dish with a fresh salad on the side to balance out the richness.
Conclusion
Homemade Southern mac and cheese is more than just a recipe. It is a tradition that has been passed down through generations. With its rich texture, layers of cheese, and comforting flavor, it is the kind of dish that brings people together. Whether you are making it for a big family gathering or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe delivers every time.
It is easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be a favorite at any table. Once you taste the perfect blend of cheese, cream, and pasta baked to golden perfection, you will understand why it is considered one of the South’s most beloved dishes.