Name: #comment 170131: 7 Secrets to Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 tbsp butter (for buttering the pan); 16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked); 10 cups water mixed with chicken broth; 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, save half for topping); 8 oz colby jack cheese (shredded, save half for topping); 8 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded); 8 oz American cheese (cubed); 4 oz softened cream cheese (warmed in the microwave for 30 seconds); 1 cup half and half; 1 cup heavy cream; kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste); ½ tsp smoked paprika; 1-2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp mustard powder; 2 large eggs

Jump to Recipe

#comment 170131 is a dish that never fails to impress. This creamy Southern baked mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich, cheesy experience that warms the heart. Made with five different kinds of cheese, heavy cream, and a custard base, this recipe ensures a gooey texture that is simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a casual dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This #comment 170131

There are countless reasons to adore this Southern baked mac and cheese. First, it’s incredibly creamy and flavorful, thanks to the use of five types of cheese. Second, it’s a simple dump-and-bake recipe, eliminating the need for complicated roux or whisking. Third, it’s perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Sunday dinners. Fourth, the dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep. Fifth, it’s vegetarian-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences. Lastly, it’s versatile and can be customized with different ingredients or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients for #comment 170131

Gather these items:

1 tbsp butter (for buttering the pan)
16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
10 cups water mixed with chicken broth
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
8 oz colby jack cheese (shredded, save half for topping)
8 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
8 oz American cheese (cubed)
4 oz softened cream cheese (warmed in the microwave for 30 seconds)
1 cup half and half
1 cup heavy cream
kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
1-2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp mustard powder
2 large eggs

How to Make #comment 170131 Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350ºF (180ºC). Butter an 8-by-11 or 9-by-13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Fill a large stockpot or dutch oven halfway with chicken broth (or water and 1 tbsp salt if you don’t have broth), and bring to a boil. Add in elbow macaroni and cook until just under al dente. Drain the pasta.
Step 3: While the pasta boils, mix the half and half, heavy cream, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the colby jack cheese, mozzarella cheese, American cheese, and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and some salt and pepper, stirring well. Stir in the cooked macaroni and eggs until well incorporated with the cheese.
Step 5: Pour the macaroni mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 6: Top the macaroni and cheese with the rest of the cheddar cheese and colby jack cheese. Sprinkle the top with more smoked paprika, if desired.
Step 7: Bake for 35 minutes or until the cheese crust is bubbly and browned. Do not over-bake.
Step 8: Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving hot.
Step 9: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Pro Tips for the Perfect #comment 170131

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for Sunday dinners and holidays.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
Store leftovers properly to maintain freshness.
For extra creaminess, consider adding more cream cheese.
Try different cheese combinations for unique flavors.

Best Ways to Serve #comment 170131

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Pair with crispy fried chicken for a hearty meal.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.
Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crunchy finish.

How to Store and Reheat #comment 170131

To store, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating, simply pop it back in the oven until warmed through, making it perfect for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About #comment 170131

What’s the secret to perfect #comment 170131?

The secret lies in the combination of cheeses used, which creates a rich and creamy texture. Additionally, cooking the macaroni just under al dente ensures it absorbs the flavors while baking without becoming mushy.

Can I make #comment 170131 ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a fresh, hot meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with #comment 170131?

Avoid overcooking the macaroni and be careful not to add too much salt, as cheeses are already salty. Ensuring a proper bake time will yield a perfect texture.

#comment 170131: 7 Secrets to Southern Baked Mac and Cheese - #comment 170131 - additional detail

Variations of #comment 170131 You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty touch.
Incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
Use different cheese blends to create unique flavors.
Try a spicy version with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making sweet potato biscuits for a delightful side dish. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, consider our creamy potato soup recipe!

For more information on the benefits of cheese in cooking, you can refer to this study on cheese.