Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in. This creamy and cheesy dish boasts a rich flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its delicious combination of cheeses and a hint of paprika, this recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this macaroni and cheese will quickly become your go-to dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort: This Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese delivers that warm, nostalgic feeling we all crave.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that everyone loves—perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of cheeses creates an irresistibly creamy and rich texture.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or side dish; it pairs well with virtually any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese can be effortless with the right tools in your kitchen. Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Casserole dish (9×13)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Casserole dish: Perfectly sized for baking the macaroni and cheese to bubbly perfection.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills or mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring a well-blended custard mixture.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 4 cups elbow pasta (16 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder

For the Cheese Mixture

• 8 tablespoons butter (1 stick)
• Pepper
• Salt
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups freshly grated mild cheddar cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated white cheddar cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated colby-jack cheese

For the Custard Base

• 2 eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For Baking

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 1 teaspoon paprika

How to Make Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add chicken bouillon powder generously to season the water.
3. Stir in the elbow pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter.
2. Add milk, heavy whipping cream, and eggs to the melted butter.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the mixing bowl with the cheese mixture.
2. Stir in sour cream and about 90% of each type of cheese until everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Bake

1. Coat your casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Pour in the pasta mixture evenly into the dish.
3. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle paprika over everything.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

Allow your Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese to rest for about 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish hot!

How to Serve Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

Serving Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese is all about enhancing its rich and creamy flavor. This dish is versatile enough to shine on its own or complement various sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your mac and cheese experience.

Family Style

• Serve it in a large bowl at the center of the table for everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.

Individual Portions

• Use ramekins to serve individual portions, making it easy for guests to enjoy their own serving while still looking elegant.

Topped with Protein

• Add grilled chicken or shredded turkey on top for a hearty meal. This not only adds protein but also complements the cheesy goodness.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. This adds a vibrant touch that makes the dish visually appealing.

Spicy Kick

• Offer hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy a little heat. It allows guests to customize their experience according to their taste preferences.

Paired with Salads

• Serve alongside a crisp garden salad. The freshness of the greens balances out the richness of the macaroni and cheese, making it a well-rounded meal.

How to Perfect Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

Perfecting Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese involves attention to detail and techniques that enhance its creamy texture and robust flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Cheese: Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded will give you a creamier texture and better melting properties.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, ensuring it maintains the right texture.
• Use Whole Milk: Full-fat milk adds richness without compromising creaminess. It helps create that indulgent mouthfeel you crave in mac and cheese.
• Layer Your Cheese: For maximum cheesiness, layer different types of cheese within the pasta mixture as well as on top before baking.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the macaroni and cheese to rest after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for an extra flavor boost that suits your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options that complement this comfort food beautifully:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing; crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy macaroni.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious balance, adding color and crunch.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes: These crispy delights add southern charm, bringing acidity that cuts through the richness.
4. Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw complements mac and cheese perfectly, adding freshness.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory mac and cheese, creating a hearty southern meal.
6. Baked Beans: Richly flavored baked beans add depth and sweetness, enhancing your plate’s overall flavors.
7. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast while adding crunchiness.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nuttiness from roasted Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of mac and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese can be easy, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long will make it mushy in the final dish. Always cook until al dente.
• Skipping cheese grating: Using pre-shredded cheese might save time, but it doesn’t melt as smoothly. Grate your own cheese for better texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Skimping on salt and pepper can result in bland macaroni and cheese. Taste your mixture before baking!
• Using low-fat dairy: Low-fat options can alter the creaminess of this dish. Stick with whole milk and heavy cream for rich flavor.
• Rushing the cooling time: Letting your dish rest after baking is crucial for the best texture. Give it at least 15 minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

• Use a freezer-safe container for best results.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring often until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low with a splash of milk, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese?

Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish that’s a staple in Southern cuisine. It features a blend of cheeses mixed into elbow macaroni for comfort food perfection.

Can I customize my Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like cooked chicken, vegetables, or different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.

How do I make my mac and cheese creamier?

To enhance creaminess, ensure you use full-fat dairy products and consider adding more sour cream or cheese to your mixture before baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add extra time when heating from cold.

Conclusion

This Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to any table. It’s versatile enough for family gatherings or cozy nights in, allowing you to customize with different ingredients as desired. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!