Southern-Style Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked macaroni with sharp cheddar flavor, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a rich and satisfying classic Southern-style dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook macaroni; drain.
- In the same saucepan, add remaining ingredients except 1/2 cup cheese; mix well.
- Cook and stir over medium heat 3 to 5 minutes until cheese melts.
- Turn into a greased 1 1/2-quart shallow dish or 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a little cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese mixture. You can also substitute half of the sharp Cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you're short on milk, a mix of half-and-half can work well. Be sure to cook the macaroni only until al dente as it will continue to cook while baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with fried chicken or collard greens for a classic Southern meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. For a fun twist, you can mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern-Style Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 744 calories, with 23g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (67% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1418mg per serving (62% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture, assemble it in the baking dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).