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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

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This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish topped with a golden, crunchy cheese crust. Made without eggs, it features a velvety homemade cheese sauce prepared in under 10 minutes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

4 cups uncooked pasta

6 Tablespoons butter

6 Tablespoons flour

1 1/2 cups milk

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

4 cups shredded cheese (blend of two cheeses recommended, e.g., sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack)

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon white pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325ºF.
  2. Grease a 9” x 13” casserole dish and set aside.
  3. In a large stockpot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  4. Cook the pasta in a separate pot according to package directions, slightly undercooking it.
  5. Whisk in the flour to the melted butter to form a roux. Add salt, white pepper, and paprika.
  6. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, increasing heat to medium-high.
  7. Add 3 cups of shredded cheese, whisking continuously until sauce thickens and cheese melts.
  8. Drain the pasta but do not rinse.
  9. Pour the cheese sauce over pasta and fold gently to combine.
  10. Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
  11. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheese evenly on top.
  12. Bake for 25 minutes or until cheese topping is browned and bubbling.
  13. Let sit 5-10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
  • Add cooked bacon or sautéed onions for richness.
  • Include mustard powder or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers for texture and nutrition.
  • Use half-and-half instead of milk and cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in oven at 325ºF for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
  • For a crunchy topping without breadcrumbs, use extra shredded cheese and bake until golden.
  • This recipe is egg-free but adding eggs creates a firmer texture.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/southern-baked-mac-and-cheese/