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Creamy Southern Mac and Cheese is the king of all comfort foods. This rich, velvety, extra-cheesy version is baked until bubbly with a golden top that everyone fights over. Made with a blend of cheeses and a secret Southern touch, this recipe delivers that gooey, decadent texture you crave.
Whether served as a main dish or the ultimate side for fried chicken or barbecue, this Southern Mac and Cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 55–60 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Why This Recipe Works
- Blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack for perfect melt and flavor
- Buttery roux-based sauce creates ultra-creamy texture
- Southern-style with a hint of mustard and cayenne for depth
- Baked with a crunchy topping for the best contrast
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (divided)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook macaroni in heavily salted water according to package directions, but 2 minutes less than al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden (this is the roux).
Slowly whisk in warm milk. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, and Dijon mustard.
Step 3: Add Cheese
Remove from heat. Stir in 3 cups sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 4: Combine & Assemble
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Topping
Mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs, remaining ½ cup cheddar, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden brown. For extra browning, broil for the last 2 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Southern Mac and Cheese
- Freshly grated cheese melts much better than pre-shredded.
- Don’t overcook the pasta — it continues cooking in the oven.
- Make it extra Southern — Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham.
- Creamier version — Stir in ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream at the end.
- Make ahead — Assemble without baking, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
What to Serve with Southern Mac and Cheese
- Southern Fried Chicken
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
- Collard Greens with Bacon
- Crispy Fried Catfish
- Meatloaf
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid dry reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this on the stovetop only?
Yes! Skip the baking and serve straight from the pot for extra creamy results.
Why is my mac and cheese grainy?
Using pre-shredded cheese or overheating the sauce can cause graininess. Always use freshly grated cheese.
Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely — increase cayenne or add chopped jalapeños.
This Creamy Southern Mac and Cheese is rich, cheesy, and everything you want in a comfort food classic. It’s guaranteed to become one of the most requested recipes in your collection.
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