If you’re searching for the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, get ready for a golden, creamy, soul-satisfying dish that never disappoints. This classic recipe delivers layers of melty cheese, rich creaminess, and just the right hint of seasoning for a side—or main!—that always steals the show at gatherings, holidays, or casual weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatable Creaminess: Mascarpone and evaporated milk create an incredibly rich and velvety cheese sauce you won’t find in ordinary mac and cheese.
- Irresistible Cheese Pull: The epic trio of sharp white cheddar, mild cheddar, and mascarpone gives every bite layers of cheesy flavor and that iconic stretchy, gooey topping.
- True Southern Flavor: A pinch of Creole seasoning, a hint of nutmeg, and plenty of butter capture that soul food magic in every forkful!
- No Roux Needed: Skip the fuss of making a béchamel—this easy recipe brings Southern baked mac and cheese to your table, fast and fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a special role, building a cheesy, creamy casserole with just the right notes of richness and spice.
- Elbow Macaroni: Essential for that classic southern mac shape and texture—holds the cheese sauce perfectly!
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the noodles and helps everything meld together luxuriously.
- Large Egg: Binds the mac and cheese and gives the casserole its tender, custardy structure.
- Evaporated Milk: A Southern classic! Makes the sauce creamy and velvety without being heavy.
- Whole Milk: Keeps the sauce silky and smooth, and adds an extra dairy boost.
- Extra-Sharp White Cheddar Cheese: Packs a punch of tangy, robust flavor and gives that melty goodness.
- Mild Cheddar Cheese (or Monterey Jack, Fontina, Colby Jack, Gouda): Lends a creamy, stretchy melt and balances the sharpness.
- Mascarpone Cheese: The not-so-secret ingredient! Adds ultra-creamy, silky texture you’ll swoon for.
- Salt: Enhances all the cheesy flavors—taste as you go to find your perfect level.
- Cajun or Creole Seasoning: Infuses a little warmth and Southern soul without overpowering the cheese.
- Dry Mustard Powder (or Dijon Mustard): Elevates the cheese sauce with a subtle zippy kick.
- Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch gives background warmth that makes the cheese flavors sing.
- Fresh Cracked Pepper: A finishing touch for that irresistible savory bite on top.
Variations
One of the reasons I adore the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re tweaking for dietary needs, or simply craving a little something different, don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a touch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mix for spicy-loving tastebuds.
- Meaty Additions: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon, crispy pancetta, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Upgrade: Fold in steamed broccoli florets, roasted butternut squash, or sautéed onions to sneak in some veggies.
- Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check all seasoning blends to keep it celiac-safe.
- Dairy-Free Tweak: Substitute plant-based milk, vegan mascarpone, and a mix of vegan cheeses for a lactose-free version.
How to Make Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare Your Noodles & Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F and generously butter your baking dish. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni in unsalted water according to the package’s maximum time—plus two extra minutes for that super-soft, classic Southern texture. Drain well and stir in a couple of tablespoons of butter, letting it melt evenly and coat every noodle.
Step 2: Shred and Mix Your Cheeses
While the pasta cooks, shred all your cheeses. Take a moment to inhale the aroma—the cheese is the star here! Make sure the cheddar and any swap-ins are shredded fresh for that melt-in-your-mouth creaminess. Combine all shredded cheeses in a bowl, ready to transform your mac into a cheesy dream.
Step 3: Whisk the Sauce Base
In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone and evaporated milk until you get a mostly smooth, creamy blend. Those little lumps? Totally fine. Add the whole milk along with salt, Creole seasoning, mustard powder, and nutmeg. This is the moment your sauce comes alive with Southern flavor notes!
Step 4: Combine and Layer
Add the buttery macaroni and half of your shredded cheese to the milk mixture—stir it all together. Be sure to taste; it’s your chance to adjust the seasoning before you stir in the beaten egg, which will set that signature custardy, creamy texture as it bakes.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour half the macaroni-cheese mixture into your buttered dish, then sprinkle with half of the remaining cheese. Repeat with the rest—layering is the secret to extra gooey, cheesy bites! Top with plenty of fresh cracked pepper and slide it into the oven for 25–30 minutes, until it’s bubbling and golden around the edges. For a lusciously browned, crispy-top finish, broil for 2–3 minutes (just keep an eye on it!). Let it rest 15 minutes before serving—the hardest part is waiting!
Pro Tips for Making Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- Ultimate Cheese Grate: Always shred your cheeses fresh from the block—pre-shredded won’t melt as dreamily and can leave your mac and cheese a bit dry.
- Custard Texture Secret: Don’t skip the egg and be sure it’s at room temp—this gives the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese its classic, creamy set that feels so homemade.
- Extra Creamy Boost: Mix the mascarpone gently with evaporated milk first; it’s totally fine if there are a few small lumps, as they’ll melt in beautifully during baking.
- Perfect Southern Noodle: Cooking your macaroni a bit past ‘al dente’ is key for that tender, hearty Southern-style bite that holds all that cheesy richness.
How to Serve Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, sprinkle your Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese with extra fresh cracked black pepper, chopped chives, or a dusting of smoked paprika for a gorgeous burst of color. A little fresh parsley or cilantro adds a pop of green and freshness—totally optional, but always eye-catching!
Side Dishes
This showstopping mac pairs perfectly with classics like collard greens, BBQ chicken, fried catfish, or even a crisp green salad. It’s the ultimate compliment to any comfort food spread, holiday feast, or even just a quick weeknight roast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving in individual ramekins for dinner parties, or cut squares of cooled mac and cheese for grab-and-go bites at a picnic. You can even load scoops onto sliders or stuff into bell peppers for a twist—however you serve it, this Southern staple always looks (and tastes) irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just let it cool, cover tightly, and store for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making those next-day spoonfuls even more tempting!
Freezing
This recipe freezes like a dream. After cooling the mac completely, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s a lifesaver for make-ahead holiday meals or those evenings you need instant comfort.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen mac and cheese in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil for about 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Add a splash of milk if needed to keep things extra creamy and steer clear of microwaving for large portions—it’s worth the oven wait!
FAQs
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Can I make Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. When you’re ready, bake as directed—just add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold from the fridge. It’s a total time-saver for busy holidays or family gatherings.
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What are the best cheese substitutes for this recipe?
You can swap the mild cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Gouda, or Fontina. The key is to use a mix of at least one sharp and one mild cheese for that signature creamy melt and deep flavor.
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Do I have to use mascarpone cheese?
Mascarpone gives a unique silkiness, but if you can’t find it, cream cheese is a great substitute. It won’t be quite as rich, but it still adds that gorgeous creaminess to your baked mac and cheese.
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How do I know when the mac and cheese is done baking?
Look for bubbling edges, a golden melted top, and a set—but still creamy—center. If you love a bronzed crust, give it a quick broil at the end, but keep a close eye so the cheese doesn’t scorch.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you’ll treat yourself and your loved ones to the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. Every cheesy, golden forkful feels like a warm hug—the kind of dish that brings everyone back for “just one more scoop.” Let me know if you try it, and enjoy every creamy bite!
Print
Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. A delectable combination of cheeses, spices, and pasta, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni:
- 2 cups (275 g)
Butter:
- 2 tablespoon (30 ml) unsalted butter
Egg:
- 1 large egg, beaten, room temperature
Evaporated Milk:
- 1 13 oz. can
Whole Milk:
- 1 cup (249 g), room temperature
Extra-Sharp White Cheddar Cheese:
- 8 oz (227 g)
Mild Cheddar Cheese:
- 12 oz (340 g)
Mascarpone Cheese:
- 8 oz (227 g), room temperature
Salt:
- 1 1/2 tsp. (9 g), or to taste
Cajun or Creole Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
Dry Mustard Powder:
- 1/2 teaspoon (2 ml), or 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
Ground Nutmeg:
- 1/8 teaspoon (1 ml)
Fresh Cracked Pepper:
- for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Heat the oven to 375°F and grease a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil macaroni in unsalted water, then stir in butter.
- Shred Cheese: Grate the cheddar cheeses.
- Mix Cheeses: Combine shredded cheeses in a bowl.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Whisk mascarpone and evaporated milk, then add whole milk, salt, seasonings, and nutmeg.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in macaroni, half of the cheese, and beaten egg.
- Layer and Bake: Alternate macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, top with cracked pepper, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Final Touch: Optionally broil for a browner top, then cool before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish ahead or freeze it for later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 463 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 872 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 107 mg
