Name: #comment 171520: Ultimate Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
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 (I use Better than Bouillon); 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 171520 is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. This Southern baked mac and cheese is the epitome of creamy, cheesy goodness, ensuring every bite is filled with delight. Made with five types of cheese and heavy cream, this recipe guarantees a rich and decadent flavor that never disappoints. With a simple dump-and-bake method, you can create this ooey-gooey dish without the fuss of complicated techniques. Perfect for Sunday dinners, Thanksgiving, or any holiday table, let’s dive into how to make this soul food classic!

Why You’ll Love This #comment 171520

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why this #comment 171520 stands out:

Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Five types of cheese create a complex flavor profile.
Easy to prepare with a simple dump-and-bake method.
No roux or whisking needed, making it beginner-friendly.
Perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Can be made ahead and reheated without losing quality.
Versatile—add your favorite ingredients or make variations.

Ingredients for #comment 171520

Gather these items:

1 tbsp butter (for buttering the pan)
16 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
10 cups water mixed with chicken broth (I use Better than Bouillon)
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 171520 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. Once 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, all of the mozzarella cheese, all of the American cheese, and all of the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and some kosher salt and pepper. Stir well and taste the mixture. Once satisfied with the seasoning, stir in the cooked macaroni and eggs until well incorporated.
Step 5: Pour the macaroni mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 6: Top with the rest of the cheddar cheese and colby jack cheese. Sprinkle with more smoked paprika, if desired.
Step 7: Bake for 35 minutes or until the cheese crust is bubbly and browned.
Step 8: Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving hot.
Step 9: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Pro Tips for the Perfect #comment 171520

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for Sunday dinners and holiday tables.
Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Do not overcook the macaroni to avoid mushiness.
For an extra crunch, broil for the last few minutes of baking.
Experiment by adding cooked bacon or vegetables for a twist.

Best Ways to Serve #comment 171520

This #comment 171520 is best served hot and gooey right out of the oven. Here are some ideas:

Pair with fried chicken for a classic Southern meal.
Serve as a side dish at barbecues and potlucks.
Top with jalapeños for a spicy kick.

How to Store and Reheat #comment 171520

To store your #comment 171520, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350ºF until heated through, about 20 minutes. This is a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious dish ready at your fingertips.

Frequently Asked Questions About #comment 171520

What’s the secret to perfect #comment 171520?

The secret lies in the cheese blend. Using multiple types of cheese enhances the flavor and creates a creamy texture. Don’t forget to season well, as it elevates the overall taste. A good balance of spices, like smoked paprika and garlic powder, adds depth.

Can I make #comment 171520 ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Simply assemble everything and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it fresh for a delightful meal. This is a great way to save time on busy days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with #comment 171520?

Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can lead to mushiness in the final dish. Also, make sure to taste your cheese mixture before adding the macaroni; adjusting seasoning at this stage can make all the difference.

Variations of #comment 171520 You Can Try

Get creative with your #comment 171520 by trying these variations:

Add cooked lobster or shrimp for a seafood twist.
Incorporate spinach or kale for a pop of green and added nutrition.
Use different cheese combinations like gouda or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Make it gluten-free by substituting the macaroni with gluten-free pasta.