Southern Mac and Cheese

Southern Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and baked to golden perfection. Unlike stovetop versions, this Southern classic is heartier, featuring layers of cheese, buttery noodles, and a custard-style sauce that sets into a firm, cheesy casserole. It’s a staple at Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, and soul food feasts across the South.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This mac and cheese isn’t just creamy—it’s indulgently cheesy with a slight crisp on the edges and a gooey, melty center. It uses a blend of cheeses for depth of flavor and a custard base that holds everything together. Baked Southern-style mac and cheese brings home that nostalgic, made-with-love feeling in every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni
• Whole milk
• Evaporated milk
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter
• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Colby or Monterey Jack cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika (optional, for topping)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and evaporated milk. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the mixture.
4. In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, then top with a mix of the shredded cheeses. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta and cheese.
5. Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the pasta and cheese layers.
6. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle paprika over the surface, if using.
7. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the custard has set.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the mac and cheese to firm up.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Use smoked gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist on flavor.
• Add cooked bacon or ham bits for a meaty version.
• Mix in a little hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Try it with a buttery Ritz cracker or panko topping for extra crunch.
• Add cooked greens like spinach or collards for a Southern soul food combo.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist.

FAQs

What makes Southern mac and cheese different from other versions?

Southern mac and cheese is baked and uses a custard base made with eggs and milk, giving it a firmer, more casserole-like texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Do I have to use evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk adds richness and helps the custard set properly, but you can use all whole milk in a pinch.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but a mix of cheeses like Colby, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella adds great melt and flavor.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s better to shred cheese yourself for better melting, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.

Why did my mac and cheese turn out dry?

It may have been overbaked or didn’t have enough liquid. Make sure your egg-milk mixture fully covers the pasta before baking.

Can I freeze Southern mac and cheese?

Yes, freeze after baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What pasta shape works best?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi or shells also work well for holding the cheese sauce.

Is it supposed to be creamy or firm?

Southern-style mac and cheese is more firm and sliceable than creamy stovetop versions.

Can I make this without eggs?

Eggs help bind the dish together in a traditional Southern style, but you can omit them for a creamier texture and add more cheese sauce.

Conclusion

Southern Mac and Cheese is a soul-warming dish that combines nostalgic comfort with rich, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a holiday table or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

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