Southern Baked Mac And Cheese
Southern mac and cheese is a popular dish in the Southern United States known for its rich and creamy texture. It typically features macaroni pasta cooked until tender and then combined with a cheese sauce made from a combination of cheeses, milk or cream.
Ingredients:
8 ounces elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and other cheese like Gruyere or Colby)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste (roux).
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is evenly coated.
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Southern mac and cheese can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs well with fried chicken, barbecue, or greens like collard greens. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding cooked bacon, diced onions, or other seasonings to give it your own unique twist. Enjoy!
Thank you for trying this recipe. Please let me know how you liked it.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a look at other recipes on my fast, simple and good pasta page.
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese