Name: Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups dry elbow macaroni; 3 tbsp salted butter; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 6 eggs; 1/2 tsp salt; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided in half)

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Introduction

This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a true family favorite in my household. From the moment the aroma of cheddar cheese and butter fills the air as it bakes, to the first bite of creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s always a hit. It’s comforting and indulgent, perfect for a family dinner, holiday feast, or just a cozy night in. My kids love it, and it’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together around the table. The best part? No processed cheese here—just real, high-quality ingredients that create an unforgettable, rich flavor. The creamy cheese sauce, the perfectly cooked macaroni, and the golden, cheesy top make this recipe a true Southern classic.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food. This dish combines the best parts of mac and cheese with a rich, creamy texture and a cheesy, golden crust on top. Unlike many store-bought versions, this recipe uses sharp cheddar and whole milk to create a smooth, flavorful sauce. With real ingredients like butter, flour, eggs, and cheese, you’ll taste the difference with every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday, a potluck, or a regular family dinner, this mac and cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you can even prepare it ahead of time for added convenience.

Ingredients

For this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Macaroni and Cheese:

4 cups dry elbow macaroni
3 tbsp salted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
6 eggs
1/2 tsp salt

For Layering:

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided into two halves)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your oven is at the perfect temperature when it’s time to bake your macaroni and cheese.

Cook the Macaroni

Cook 4 cups of dry elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures your pasta doesn’t become too soft or mushy while baking.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot you used to cook the macaroni, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low-medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour, cooking it for about 3 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Keep the heat on low to avoid curdling the milk. Once it’s thickened, add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy sauce.

Combine the Sauce with the Pasta

Remove the pot from the heat and add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir the pasta gently to make sure each noodle is coated with the creamy sauce.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 eggs and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir this egg mixture into the macaroni and cheese until fully combined. The eggs help bind the dish together and create a smooth, custardy texture.

Layer the Macaroni and Cheese

Pour half of the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 13×9-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer. Add the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture, and top with the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese. This creates that signature cheesy crust on top when baked.

Bake the Macaroni and Cheese

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean without any runny liquid, it’s ready to serve.

Serve and Store

Once baked, allow the mac and cheese to cool slightly before serving. It’s best served warm, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/12th of the casserole)
Calories: 400
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 160mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Serve

This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is perfect as a side dish, but it can also be served as the main course with a few sides. Here are a few ways to serve it:

As a Side Dish: Pair it with fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or baked ham for a Southern-inspired feast.
As a Main Course: Add a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
For a Special Occasion: Serve it during family gatherings, holiday meals, or potlucks—everyone will love it!
Reheating Leftovers: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warm.
With a Topping: Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling breadcrumbs or panko on top before baking.

Additional Tips

Use High-Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, opt for sharp cheddar cheese. The sharper the cheese, the more flavorful your dish will be.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni just to al dente. Overcooking it can lead to mushy pasta when baking.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to increase the baking time by 15–20 minutes if baking directly from the fridge.
For Extra Creaminess: Add a little cream or sour cream to the cheese sauce for extra richness.
Freeze Leftovers: This mac and cheese freezes well. Store leftovers in an airtight container, and when ready to eat, reheat in the oven.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda. However, sharp cheddar gives it the best flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to increase the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I make it without eggs? Eggs are essential for binding the macaroni and cheese. You could try using an egg substitute, but the texture may differ.
What can I serve with Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese? This dish pairs perfectly with fried chicken, barbecue, collard greens, or a fresh garden salad.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from separating? Be sure to cook the milk mixture on low heat and stir constantly. High heat can cause the milk to curdle.
Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk? Whole milk provides a richer, creamier sauce, but you can use skim milk if you prefer a lighter version.
How can I make the top extra crispy? Add a layer of breadcrumbs on top of the mac and cheese before baking for a crunchy, golden crust.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze the baked macaroni and cheese. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat it in the oven for best results.
Can I add other ingredients to the mac and cheese? Feel free to add ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even a bit of hot sauce for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. It’s a comforting, indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich cheese sauce, tender macaroni, and golden cheesy crust will have everyone coming back for seconds!