Go Back
Print Recipe

Baked Southern Macaroni and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy, crispy golden topped crust classic. With a perfect blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish every time!
Total Time1 hour
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Homestyle, Southern
Keyword: Baked Mac and Cheese, Baked Southern Macaroni and Cheese, Southern Mac and Cheese
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Dey | Touching Tables

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded from block
  • 2 cups monterey jack cheese shredded from block
  • 2 cups whole milk preferably; or any milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
  • salt to taste
  • garlic powder to taste
  • onion powder to taste
  • paprika to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted; for topping

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni:

  • Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  • In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  • Add the flour and whisk to form a smooth roux. Cook for about 2 minutes. .
  • Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
  • Let it thicken for 5 minutes.

Add the Cheese and Seasonings:

  • Stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
  • Add mustard and seasonings to taste. Mix well.

Combine:

  • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

Prepare for Baking:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the top.

Bake:

  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  • Enjoy your rich, cheesy, and perfectly baked Southern macaroni and cheese!

Notes

DID YOU TRY OUR RECIPE?

 
If you tried this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and/or review in the comment section. Feedback is warmly welcomed and your support is greatly appreciated!