Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

why make this recipe

Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal. With its creamy cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a dish that everyone loves. Whether you’re having a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, and the combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese creates a rich flavor that will have you coming back for more.

how to make Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux.
4. Gradually add the milk while stirring until the mixture thickens.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well. Transfer this mixture to the greased baking dish and top it with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbly.

how to serve Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Serve the macaroni and cheese hot out of the oven. You can pair it with a side salad, grilled chicken, or your favorite vegetables. This dish can also be a great main course on its own!

how to store Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

To store leftovers, let the macaroni and cheese cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

tips to make Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

• Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni al dente to prevent it from getting mushy after baking.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique flavor.
• If you like a little crunch, try adding more panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.

variation

You can add cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a twist on the classic dish. Just mix them into the cheese sauce along with the macaroni before baking.

FAQs

What type of cheese is best for macaroni and cheese?
Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are excellent choices, but you can also use gouda, mozzarella, or any cheese you like.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I make my macaroni and cheese creamier?
For creamier macaroni and cheese, use a combination of heavy cream and milk or add more cheese to the sauce.

Perfect Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

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A classic comfort food with creamy cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux.
4. Gradually add the milk while stirring until the mixture thickens.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well. Transfer this mixture to the greased baking dish and top it with panko breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbly.

Notes

Allow the dish to cool before storing leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 55mg