The Ultimate Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Everyone Loves
This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is rich, ultra-creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Unlike boxed versions, this classic comfort food is baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top and a smooth, velvety center.
It’s the kind of recipe that steals the show at family dinners, holidays, potlucks, and Sunday meals. One bite and you’ll understand why this is the ultimate mac and cheese recipe.
⭐ Why This Mac and Cheese Is the Best
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Super creamy & cheesy
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Authentic Southern-style
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Perfect for holidays & gatherings
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Crowd-pleasing comfort food
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Easy to customize
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
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400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
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4 tbsp butter
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3 cups whole milk
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2 cups heavy cream
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3 large eggs
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3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
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1 cup mozzarella cheese
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1 cup Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
👩🍳 How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook macaroni in salted water until just al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese
Shred all cheeses and mix them together in a large bowl.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
In another bowl, whisk milk, heavy cream, eggs, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 4: Assemble
Preheat oven to 175°C / 350°F.
Butter a baking dish.
Layer pasta, cheese, and butter.
Pour milk mixture evenly over everything.
Top with extra cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese
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Always shred cheese yourself
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Don’t overcook the pasta
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Let it rest before serving
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Use full-fat dairy for best texture
🔄 Variations You’ll Love
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Bacon mac and cheese
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Spicy mac and cheese (add cayenne)
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Three-cheese or five-cheese blend
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Add lobster or chicken
❓ FAQ (SEO Friendly)
Why use eggs in Southern mac and cheese?
Eggs create a creamy, custard-like texture.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Yes, freeze up to 2 months.