When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a delicious, creamy macaroni and cheese. This Southern-style recipe captures the essence of home-cooked goodness with its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy evening at home, here’s how you can create the ultimate macaroni and cheese that everyone will love.
Southern Macaroni and Cheese
This recipe for Southern Macaroni and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and utterly indulgent. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions so you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time!
Ingredients
To prepare this lovely dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of smokiness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Southern Macaroni and Cheese:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and stir continually for about 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking to combine. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Once thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheeses — cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan — until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure all pasta is well-coated.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish. For an added crunch, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Southern Macaroni and Cheese!
This dish is sure to become a favorite at your dining table. The creamy blend of cheeses combined with tender pasta creates a comforting experience that’s truly hard to resist. Dig in and savor every bite!
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source = tastymadesimple.com