Get ready to indulge in a comfort food extravaganza! Southern-style macaroni and cheese is a staple of warm, fuzzy feelings and happy bellies. And today, we’re taking it up a notch with not one, not two, but 20 creamy southern mac and cheese recipes that’ll make your taste buds do the Texas two-step.
From classic baked mac to spicy twists and international inspirations, we’ve got you covered with the most mouthwatering, comforting, and downright delicious Southern macaroni and cheese recipes out there. Whether you’re a Southerner at heart or just looking for a culinary escape from the ordinary, these 20 creamy southern mac and cheese dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive into this comfort food extravaganza!
Classic Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Classic Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Get ready for a comforting and creamy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! This recipe takes the classic comfort food to new heights with its rich, velvety cheese sauce and crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated American cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, cheddar cheese, American cheese, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs (optional) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Style Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
Get ready to cozy up with this creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s a staple of Southern comfort food. Our Southern Style Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese recipe combines rich flavors and textures for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work best)
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Southern Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and creamy macaroni and cheese dish, elevated by the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. This classic Southern favorite is a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, creamy sauce, and crumbled bacon. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Smoked Gouda
A creamy comfort food classic gets a rich and smoky twist with the addition of smoked gouda cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated smoked gouda cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in cheddar and smoked gouda cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.
9. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Southern Mac and Cheese with Jalapeños
This creamy macaroni dish gets a kick from the addition of jalapeños, adding a spicy twist to the classic comfort food. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, jalapeños, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork
A comforting fusion of classic macaroni and cheese with tender pulled pork, this dish is a Southern twist on a comfort food staple.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups pulled pork (see note)
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine pulled pork, flour, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and add cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, pork mixture, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Lobster
This decadent Southern classic gets a luxurious upgrade with the addition of succulent lobster meat. Rich, creamy macaroni and cheese is infused with the sweet flavor of cheddar and Parmesan, while tender chunks of lobster add an indulgent touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and lobster meat into the cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Cajun Seasoning
Get ready for a twist on the classic comfort food! This Southern Mac and Cheese recipe adds a bold kick from Cajun seasoning, making it a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Garlic Butter Breadcrumbs
Get ready to cozy up with this creamy Southern mac and cheese, elevated by the rich flavor of garlic butter breadcrumbs. This comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk over medium heat until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with garlic butter breadcrumbs (see below).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Garlic Butter Breadcrumbs:
1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
3. Stir in panko breadcrumbs and cook until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over mac and cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
Rich, creamy macaroni and cheese gets a boost of flavor from sweet caramelized onions in this comforting Southern classic. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, bringing mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni and caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Collard Greens
This comforting dish combines creamy macaroni and cheese with the earthy flavor of collard greens, a staple in Southern cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped collard greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, collard greens, and cheesy sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Hot Sauce
Southern Mac and Cheese with Hot Sauce: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This creamy macaroni dish gets a bold kick from the addition of hot sauce, perfect for those who like a little heat in their comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add hot sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Pimento Cheese Blend
Get ready for a creamy, comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese recipe. This Southern-inspired dish combines tender macaroni, rich pimento cheese blend, and crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese blend (such as Kraft Pimento Cheese Spread)
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumb topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in pimento cheese blend and flour to make a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and pimento cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumb topping.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Andouille Sausage
This creamy, cheesy casserole combines the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese with the spicy kick of andouille sausage. A perfect blend of Southern flavors!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 andouille sausage, sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sliced andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and cooked sausage in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Cornbread Topping
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this creamy, cheesy, and crunchy Southern classic! This beloved dish is elevated by a crispy cornbread topping that adds a delightful textural contrast.
Ingredients:
For the mac and cheese:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the cornbread topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cornbread topping (see below).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through.
Cornbread Topping:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add buttermilk and beaten egg. Mix until just combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
5. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Southern Mac and Cheese with Crab Meat
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of Southern macaroni and cheese with the rich flavor of crab meat, creating a dish that’s sure to please. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 pound lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked macaroni and crab meat; stir until combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Fried Chicken Crumbles
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a boost of flavor and texture from the addition of crispy fried chicken crumbles. It’s a comforting, Southern-inspired twist on a beloved classic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fried chicken crumbles (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with fried chicken crumbles.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Sweet Potato Mash
This recipe combines the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a deliciously Southern-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked through
– Optional: crispy bacon or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, mash cooked sweet potatoes with butter and a pinch of salt.
Serve: Combine macaroni and cheese mixture with mashed sweet potatoes. Garnish with crispy bacon or scallions if desired.
Southern Mac and Cheese with Roasted Red Peppers
This creamy macaroni dish gets a pop of flavor from roasted red peppers, adding a sweet and smoky twist to the classic Southern comfort food. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Roast red bell peppers in the oven for 30 minutes or until charred.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and roasted red peppers. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Herb Infused Cream Sauce
A comforting classic gets a luxurious twist with the addition of fresh herbs and rich cream, making this dish a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary), chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Stir in thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cream sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamiest, most delicious Southern-style mac and cheese recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes combines classic comfort food with southern flair. From classic baked mac and cheese to unique twists featuring bacon, smoked gouda, lobster, and even pulled pork, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich flavors of the South, with a focus on creamy sauces, crispy toppings, and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re a Southern transplant or just a fan of comfort food, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
