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
Scale
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.
