There’s something truly magical about a bubbling, golden-baked Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. This isn’t just any old mac and cheese—it’s pure comfort, layered with creamy, cheesy goodness in every forkful. Rich sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella create those wonderful, stretchy cheese pulls, while a hint of paprika and a touch of butter round out the deep Southern soul of the dish. Whether you’re serving it up as a family centerpiece or taking it to a potluck, this is one casserole that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering everything for Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole is delightfully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this casserole so luscious and flavorful, from the creaminess of whole milk and evaporated milk to the beautiful color and sharp tang from the cheeses. Let’s break down what you’ll need—and why you’ll be glad you have it.
- Elbow macaroni (3 cups): The traditional shape that holds all the creamy cheese sauce in its curves for the perfect bite.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Coats the pasta, adding a silky richness and welcoming the cheese mixture.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Contributes to a creamy base while still lending a fresh dairy flavor.
- Evaporated milk (1 cup): Doubles down on richness, giving the casserole its luxurious, almost custardy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind everything together for that classic casserole structure.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors, making each bite pop.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and depth.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Offers savory undertones without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses a gentle sweetness and complexity into the cheese sauce.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings color and a soft smoky note.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (3 cups): The classic backbone of flavor and color in any traditional mac and cheese.
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese (1 cup): Adds creamy melt and a touch of tang.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (½ cup): Lends that beautiful pull and mildness in the gooey cheese mix.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Provides a nutty edge and helps crisp the top.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional): If you crave a little crunch, sprinkle these over the top for a golden finish.
How to Make Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your elbow macaroni and cook just until al dente—this means the pasta holds its shape and will finish cooking in all that cheesy sauce. Drain well, then return the pasta to the pot and stir in the butter until melted and every noodle glistens. This early butter bath helps the casserole develop its classic creaminess!
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Once smooth and well-mixed, stir in half of each cheese: sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This forms the base that transforms your cooked pasta into Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole perfection.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Pour the cheese mixture right over the buttered macaroni and gently fold everything together. You want every piece of pasta wrapped in creamy, cheesy goodness, ensuring every spoonful tastes just as amazing as the last.
Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Take the rest of your cheeses and sprinkle them generously on top. For an extra Southern touch, scatter seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese layer (if using) for a crispy, golden crown.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your casserole into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven, uncovered, and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Watch for those telltale signs: the top should be bubbling enthusiastically and gloriously browned around the edges. Let the Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole rest for about 10 minutes before digging in—the hardest part is waiting!
How to Serve Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Garnishes
You can keep it classic with a simple sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh chives for a vibrant pop of green and a touch of freshness. If you love a hint of heat, a few dashes of hot sauce on the side or a extra shake of paprika over the top bring color and just enough spice to wake up the palate.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a superstar on its own, but it pairs beautifully with tangy collard greens, pan-seared green beans, or a zippy Southern slaw. If you’re serving it as part of a grand feast, don’t forget to round out the table with fried chicken or glazed ham to make it a meal everyone will remember.
Creative Ways to Present
For family gatherings, serve Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole in individual ramekins or mini baking dishes for adorable, single-serve portions. If you want to get festive, try scooping it into hollowed-out bell peppers or alongside smoked barbecue for a playful, interactive meal. No matter how you serve it, that bubbling cheese makes an unforgettable impression!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more after a night in the fridge, making the leftovers nearly as irresistible as the day it’s baked.
Freezing
Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole can be frozen with fantastic results. Cool the casserole completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and creaminess.
Reheating
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), cover the casserole with foil, and heat until warmed through—usually about 20 minutes for a full casserole or 10 minutes for individual portions. If you notice the pasta has absorbed some of the sauce, stir in a splash of milk before reheating to restore the creamy magic.
FAQs
What makes Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole different from other mac and cheese recipes?
This classic Southern version is all about the blend of cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella along with eggs and evaporated milk, which creates a rich, custard-like texture you won’t find in stovetop versions. The baked finish brings a crispy golden top that’s truly irresistible.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While the combination of sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella is part of what makes this casserole so comforting, feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even pepper jack for a little zing. The beauty is in making it your own while honoring the spirit of Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole.
Is it okay to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes—this dish is a dream for advance prep. Assemble everything but do not bake, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. When you’re ready, just add a couple of extra minutes to your baking time and enjoy!
How can I make it extra creamy?
If you’re after ultra-creamy mac and cheese, reduce the baking time by 5-7 minutes or cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes, then uncover to brown the top. You can also add an extra splash of whole or evaporated milk before baking.
Can I add mix-ins like bacon or vegetables?
Definitely! Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or roasted vegetables when mixing the pasta and cheese sauce. It’s a fun way to put your own spin on Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole and sneak in some extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Every time I pull Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole from the oven, I’m reminded why this dish is such a beloved staple—creamy, cheesy, and comforting beyond words. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, I hope you’ll make this recipe part of your own family traditions. Get ready for second helpings and happy smiles at your table!
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Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Macaroni:
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot with butter.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a bowl, whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir in half of the shredded cheeses.
- Combine and bake: Mix the cheese mixture with the macaroni, then pour into the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, adjust baking time or cover with foil initially.
- Enhance flavor with cooked bacon or sautéed onions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
