Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese. This classic comfort dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Elbow Macaroni:
- 2 cups
White Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese Mixture:
- 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg (optional, for firmer texture)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the White Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk and cream, then stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese, mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Temper the Egg: Beat the egg, whisk in some hot cheese sauce, then combine with the sauce.
- Combine and Bake: Mix cheese sauce with macaroni, pour into dish, top with remaining cheddar, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest before serving.
Notes
- For a crispy topping, broil for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Enhance with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch.
- Pair with fried chicken, greens, or barbecue for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
