The Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, rich, and creamy dish of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese! Unlike the stovetop version, this soul food classic is baked to perfection, creating a crispy, golden, cheesy crust on top while keeping the inside super creamy and flavorful.

This isn’t your average mac and cheese—it’s packed with bold flavors, made with a mix of cheeses, and has a custard-like texture that holds everything together. Whether you’re making it for holidays, Sunday dinner, or a potluck, this Southern-style mac and cheese will be the star of the table.

Get ready to experience the ultimate cheesy goodness in every bite! 🧀✨

Why This Recipe Is the Best

✅ Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – Uses multiple cheeses for deep, rich flavor.
✅ Baked to Perfection – Creates a golden, crispy topping with a creamy interior.
✅ Full of Flavor – A touch of seasoning and evaporated milk for a true Southern-style taste.
✅ Perfect for Gatherings – A favorite at Thanksgiving, Christmas, BBQs, and potlucks.

Ingredients (in grams)

For 6-8 servings, you’ll need:

For the Pasta:

400g elbow macaroni (or cavatappi pasta)
1 tablespoon (15g) salt (for boiling water)

For the Cheese Sauce:

50g unsalted butter
30g all-purpose flour
500ml whole milk
250ml evaporated milk (for extra creaminess)
200g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
150g gouda cheese, shredded
100g mozzarella cheese, shredded
50g Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon (5g) salt
½ teaspoon (2g) black pepper
½ teaspoon (2g) paprika
½ teaspoon (2g) garlic powder
½ teaspoon (2g) onion powder

For the Egg Mixture (Custard-Style Base):

2 large eggs
120ml evaporated milk
½ teaspoon (2g) salt

For the Topping:

100g sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
50g breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon (5g) butter, melted (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the elbow macaroni and cook 1-2 minutes less than the package directions (about 6-7 minutes) until slightly firm (al dente).
Drain the pasta and toss it with a little butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux (this thickens the sauce).
Slowly whisk in whole milk and evaporated milk, stirring until smooth.
Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
Lower the heat and add cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese (reserve some for topping). Stir until melted.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture (Optional but Traditional in Southern Mac & Cheese)

In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, evaporated milk, and salt.
Slowly pour the egg mixture into the cheese sauce, whisking continuously to combine.
This creates a custard-like texture, helping the mac and cheese hold together when baked.

Step 4: Assemble the Mac & Cheese

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
If using, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for an extra crispy topping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 27g
Sodium: 600mg

(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient choices.)

Tips & Tricks for the Best Southern Baked Mac & Cheese

✔️ Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can make the sauce grainy. Grate your own cheese for the best melt!

✔️ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy after baking.

✔️ Layer the Cheese – Instead of mixing everything at once, layer cheese between the pasta for extra cheesiness.

✔️ Broil for Extra Crispiness – If you love a crispy cheese topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

✔️ Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a kick!

Variations to Try

🧄 Garlic Butter Mac & Cheese: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder for deeper flavor.

🥓 Bacon Mac & Cheese: Add crispy bacon crumbles for smoky goodness.

🦐 Cajun Shrimp Mac & Cheese: Toss in spicy shrimp for a Southern seafood twist.

🥦 Loaded Veggie Mac: Add roasted broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for a healthy touch.