Southern Baked Mac and Cheese for Comfort Nights: Pure Bliss!
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A creamy and cheesy Southern baked mac and cheese recipe that brings comfort and joy to any night.
- Author: Marianne
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or diced ham.
- Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique taste.
- Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg