Southern Mac And Cheese Recipe For Ultimate Comfort - Mac and Cheese Recipes

There's something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy dish that reminds you of home. One such dish is the classic Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. It's creamy, rich, and just the thing to whip up for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that embodies all the flavors of Southern cooking!

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

To get started, here’s a glance at the beautifully baked creation we’re about to make!

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Now let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Southern Baked Mac and Cheese:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking often, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Add the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
8. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Southern Baked Mac and Cheese!

This dish is sure to impress and bring everybody to the table. It’s cheesy, delicious, and, most importantly, made with love!