Southern Macaroni And Cheese
A comforting Southern classic featuring creamy cheddar, buttery macaroni, and a paprika crust—perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until almost done; drain.
- Add milk, beaten eggs, cheese, butter, salt, and pepper to the macaroni and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle paprika on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 hour or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère along with cheddar. If you prefer a bit of tang, add a splash of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. To save time, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but fresh cheese typically melts better. Make sure not to overcook the macaroni initially; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Macaroni And Cheese pairs beautifully with fried chicken or barbecue ribs for a classic comfort food meal. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also enjoy it as a standalone dish. For a delightful dessert, consider following this meal with Red Cinnamon Apple Pie to complete the Southern dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can add a splash of milk before reheating to help revive the creaminess. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 490 calories, with 21g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (221% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and iron (91% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble the macaroni and cheese, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if my macaroni and cheese turns out too dry?
If your macaroni and cheese is dry after baking, you can stir in a little extra milk or cream to add moisture. Additionally, covering the dish with foil while reheating can help retain moisture and prevent further drying.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked broccoli, spinach, or even sautéed bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if the vegetables require it, ensuring everything is heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).