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Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese


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  • Author: james-walker
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting dish of creamy cheese and tender pasta that brings families together around the dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it starts to bubble.
  3. Gradually add in the milk and cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Remove from heat and mix in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar and 1 cup of mozzarella until melted and smooth.
  6. Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and breadcrumbs (if using).
  8. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

For a perfect cheesy pull, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg