Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, cheesy, and loaded with classic comfort food flavor. Made with sour cream, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and three freshly grated cheeses, this baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a must-have for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, potlucks, cookouts, and family celebrations.
With its creamy center and golden cheesy topping, this Southern-style mac and cheese is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
-
Ultra creamy and cheesy
-
Classic Southern comfort food
-
Perfect for holidays and family dinners
-
Made with three kinds of cheese
-
Great make-ahead side dish
-
Crowd favorite recipe
-
Rich, flavorful, and satisfying
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese
-
1 pound elbow macaroni
-
8 ounces sour cream
-
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
-
2 cups Colby Jack cheese, freshly grated
-
2 cups white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
-
4 tablespoons butter, melted
-
2 large eggs, beaten
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon onion powder
-
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
-
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
-
1 cup Colby Jack cheese
How to Make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until just al dente.
Drain and allow the pasta to cool for about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
-
Sour cream
-
Evaporated milk
-
Heavy cream
-
Melted butter
-
Beaten eggs
-
Garlic powder
-
Onion powder
-
Smoked paprika
-
Salt
-
Black pepper
Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Stir in:
-
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
-
2 cups Colby Jack cheese
-
2 cups white cheddar cheese
Mix until evenly combined.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until every noodle is coated.
Pour into the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar and Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown, bubbly, and set in the center.
Allow the mac and cheese to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips
-
Freshly grated cheese melts much better than pre-shredded cheese.
-
Do not overcook the pasta before baking.
-
Let the casserole rest before serving for the best texture.
-
Add a little extra smoked paprika for a deeper Southern flavor.
-
Use sharp cheddar for the richest cheesy taste.
What to Serve with Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This creamy baked mac and cheese pair perfectly with:
For dessert, serve with Strawberry Tres Leches Cake, Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake, or Matilda's Chocolate Cake.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, add a splash of milk before warming in the microwave or oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Southern Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Why do Southern mac and cheese recipes use eggs?
Eggs help create the classic Southern baked mac and cheese texture by binding the ingredients together.
Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Yes. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months.
What cheeses work best for baked mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and white cheddar provide the perfect balance of flavor and creaminess.
More Southern Recipes You'll Love
Southern Fried Cabbage
Cornbread Recipe
Smothered Pork Chops
BBQ Chicken
Candied Yams
Collard Greens
Southern Peach Cobbler
Nutrition
Calories and nutritional values will vary depending on serving size.