This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the real deal—the kind of creamy, soul-satisfying dish that’s been passed down through generations and graces every family gathering and church potluck. A rich, velvety cheese sauce is made from scratch with a proper roux, whole milk, and heavy cream, then loaded with sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect stretch and flavor. The addition of an egg gives it that traditional Southern custard-like texture, while baking creates a golden, slightly crispy top that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior underneath.
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Recipe by Daily Disher
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese features tender elbow macaroni in a rich, creamy sauce made with cheddar and mozzarella, baked until golden and bubbly with a crispy cheese topping.
Course: Side
/Cuisine: American
/Difficulty: Medium
Servings
8
Prep time
15 minutes
Cooking time
45 minutes
Calories
450 kcal
1 hour
Ingredients
3 cups elbow macaroni
½ cup butter
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups heavy cream
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
1 egg
Directions
1.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
3.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to smoothen and thicken the mixture without lumps.
4.
Remove from heat and add in 3 cups of cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
5.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Then, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
6.
In a small bowl, beat the egg and then stir it into the macaroni and cheese mixture for added richness.
7.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
8.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Total number of serves:
4 servings
Calories:
450kcal
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
620mg
Potassium:
400mg
Sugar:
8g
Protein:
6g
Calcium:
60mg
Iron:
2mg
