Southern Mac and Cheese

This classic Southern Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food that takes me back to my grandmother's kitchen where the aroma of bubbling cheese would fill the entire house. The creamy texture combined with a perfectly crispy top layer creates that nostalgic flavor that's simply impossible to resist.

I first made this recipe during a particularly cold winter when my family needed something truly comforting. The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates that signature stretchy cheese pull that my children now request at least twice a month.

Ingredients

• Macaroni pasta: Forms the hearty base, best cooked al dente for the perfect texture
• Unsalted butter: Allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish
• All purpose flour: Creates the roux that thickens your sauce perfectly
• Whole milk: Adds richness and creaminess essential to southern style mac and cheese
• Evaporated milk: Provides that signature creamy texture without needing heavy cream
• Onion powder: Infuses flavor throughout without actual onion pieces
• Garlic powder: Adds depth that complements the cheese beautifully
• Sea salt: Enhances all flavors, make sure to taste and adjust as needed
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess
• Cajun seasoning: Gives this classic dish a distinctive southern twist
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible stretchy cheese pull
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides the bold flavor that makes this dish unforgettable

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Cook the Pasta:

Boil the macaroni according to package directions until al dente, not soft. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking it now ensures perfect texture later. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and drain thoroughly.

Create the Roux:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, watching carefully to prevent burning. Once completely melted, whisk in the flour continuously for about 2 minutes. This cooking process eliminates the raw flour taste and creates the foundation for a silky smooth sauce.

Build the Cream Sauce:

Pour in whole milk and evaporated milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Add onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon, indicating it has thickened properly.

Incorporate the Cheese:

Add both mozzarella and sharp cheddar to the thickened milk mixture. Stir constantly until the cheese has completely melted, creating a smooth, velvety sauce. The combination of these two cheeses creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, folding gently until each piece is thoroughly coated. Take your time here to ensure even distribution of the sauce throughout the pasta.

Prepare for Baking:

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle additional cheese on top to create that irresistible golden crust everyone fights over.

Bake to Perfection:

Place in a preheated 375°F oven for 18 to 20 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and a golden brown top as indicators that your mac and cheese has reached perfection.

My absolute favorite part of this recipe is how the Cajun seasoning transforms traditional mac and cheese into something special. When my grandmother first taught me this recipe, she insisted on using this seasoning, saying it was the secret that made everyone ask for seconds. Years later I still smile remembering her insistence on this one special ingredient.

Make It Your Own

Southern Mac and Cheese welcomes customization. Try adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed jalapeños, or crispy fried onions on top before baking. For a heartier meal, fold in shredded rotisserie chicken or steamed broccoli florets. These additions maintain the classic comfort food feel while making it uniquely yours. I personally love adding diced roasted red peppers for a sweet contrast to the rich cheese.

Troubleshooting Tips

The perfect mac and cheese has a creamy interior and golden top. If your sauce seems grainy, your heat may have been too high when adding cheese. Always remove from direct heat before incorporating cheese and stir constantly. If too thin, let the sauce simmer longer before adding pasta. Too thick? Add a splash more milk. Remember that the sauce will thicken further during baking, so it should be slightly thinner than your desired final consistency.

Storage and Reheating

This Southern Mac and Cheese stays good in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of milk and cover with foil before placing in a 325°F oven until heated through, about 15 minutes. For individual portions, microwave with a damp paper towel covering the bowl to maintain moisture. The texture remains remarkably creamy even after reheating, making it perfect for meal prep or planned leftovers.

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This recipe will warm your heart and satisfy anyone who takes a bite. A perfect addition to any family tradition or weekday meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella and sharp cheddar are recommended for their creamy texture and bold flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Monterey jack for different tastes.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour when making the cheese sauce, and use gluten-free macaroni.

→ How do I prevent the cheese sauce from curdling?

Whisk continuously while cooking over medium heat, and avoid overheating the milk or cheese to maintain a smooth consistency.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it as instructed.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep it moist, until warmed through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.