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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese: A Taste of Home

Classic Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

This is the ultimate Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
  6. Stir in salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Add macaroni to cheese sauce and stir to coat.
  9. Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  11. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
  12. Enjoy!

Notes

For a crispier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese before baking. You can also add other cheeses, such as Gruyere or Parmesan.