If you have ever dreamed of comfort food that wraps you in a warm, cheesy hug, then the Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe is exactly the dish to make your heart sing. This classic soul food favorite brings together velvety cheeses, tender elbow macaroni, and just the right touch of seasoning to create a dish that is creamy, rich, and full of irresistible Southern charm. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a little extra love on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look simple, but each plays a crucial role in delivering the creamy texture, vibrant color, and bold flavor that make this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe so unforgettable.
- 1 lb elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto every bit of sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the dish its signature sharp and tangy bite.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds those gooey, melty stretches that everyone loves.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides creaminess without overpowering the cheese flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Boosts richness for that indulgent mouthfeel.
- 1/4 cup butter: Used for the roux base and adds a silky finish.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Help set the cheese sauce for a custard-like texture after baking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory lift that enhances depth.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: A small punch to brighten and balance the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional): For topping that crunchy golden crust everyone dreams about.
How to Make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your mac and cheese won’t stick and will bake evenly with a lovely crust. Then, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just tender — not mushy — because it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Rich Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter slowly for that silky base. Whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Once warm, add garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper for those subtle savory layers that make this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe stand out. Remove from heat and stir in both cheeses until they melt into a smooth, luscious sauce.
Step 3: Mix in the Eggs
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then whisk them into your warm cheese sauce. This crucial step helps the sauce set beautifully during baking, resulting in a creamy but firm texture that holds the macaroni in perfect cheesy harmony.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce bowl and gently fold everything together until every noodle is luxuriously coated. Then, transfer this creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Add Breadcrumbs and Bake
If you love a crispy, golden top (and who doesn’t?), sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is bubbly and the breadcrumbs have turned a beautiful shade of golden brown, creating an irresistible crust atop the creamy pasta.
How to Serve Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives can add a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal note to balance the richness. For those who like a little heat, a tiny dusting of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper on top is a game-changer that warms every bite.
Side Dishes
This soul food classic pairs beautifully with collard greens, crispy fried chicken, or even a tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. Adding cornbread to the mix can complete the plate, making your meal feel like a full, comforting Southern feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe in individual ramekins for a fancy touch at dinner parties. Or layer it with cooked ham or crumbled bacon for a meaty twist. For something different, try mixing in steamed broccoli or sautéed onions right before baking — the creaminess is perfect for carrying bold veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making it even more comforting the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Place the cooled mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the breadcrumb topping if you prefer it crunchy—add fresh crumbs before baking after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil to keep moisture, until warmed through. For a quick option, microwave individual servings, stirring halfway to maintain that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella offer classic flavors and textures, feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky provolone to make it your own.
Is it necessary to use both milk and heavy cream?
Using both adds richness and the perfect creamy texture without being too heavy. You can use all milk for a lighter version but expect a less indulgent outcome.
What can I do if I don’t have mustard powder?
You can substitute with a small amount of Dijon mustard or skip it entirely, though the mustard powder adds a subtle tang that enhances the cheese flavor nicely.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping to keep this Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive folks.
How can I make this dish extra creamy?
For an ultra-creamy dish, add a little cream cheese or a splash of evaporated milk into the cheese sauce before folding in the macaroni.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe is more than just a side dish — it’s a celebration of soulful, comforting flavors that remind you of home and happiness. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again. So grab your favorite cheese, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to share some serious love from the kitchen!
Print
Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern Soul Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style recipe is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish perfect for family meals. Featuring sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese baked with tender elbow macaroni, it offers rich flavors enhanced by garlic and mustard powder. Breadcrumbs add a delightful golden crust, making it a classic soul food side or main dish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Cheese Sauce Base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the whole milk and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer to warm the liquids without boiling.
- Season the Sauce: Whisk in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to infuse the sauce with flavor.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
- Incorporate Eggs: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the cheese sauce gradually while stirring vigorously to prevent curdling, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce thoroughly, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping and Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the top is bubbly, golden brown, and crispy.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use full-fat dairy products as suggested.
- The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a satisfying crunch.
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes such as shells or penne.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, ensure the cheese and eggs are vegetarian-friendly.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
