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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

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Creamy southern baked mac and cheese with a secret ingredient is always one of my most popular recipes! The best southern mac and cheese is the best baked mac and cheese recipe! It's the ultimate comfort food for Sunday dinner or a holiday celebration!

Spoon scooping southern baked mac and cheese.
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
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And if you like this old fashioned mac and cheese with evaporated milk, you'll want to check out Pressure Cooker Ham Braised in Beer, Puff Pastry Tart with Cranberry and Brie, and Brown Butter Sweet Potato Pie!

Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

For my family, there are certain favorite comfort foods that are absolutely mandatory for us to have for family gatherings and special occasions. You have your hams, your turkeys, and roast beefs, but the stars of the show are definitely the sides and desserts.

Cornbread dressing, collard greens, sweet potato pie, and pound cake are never missing from the table. It just doesn't feel like a holiday without them. But one of our all-time favorite recipes is baked macaroni and cheese, and this creamy southern mac and cheese recipe is our go-to recipe!

What is the difference between southern mac and cheese and other mac and cheese recipes?

Homemade mac and cheese recipes can vary wildly, but for me the best kind has a cheesy custard filling made with egg and evaporated milk. Then it's got a topping of even more lightly browned cheese. That's the southern style mac and cheese I grew up with!

If you haven't had this style of old fashioned baked mac and cheese with evaporated milk, this will be your new favorite recipe for any meal, and maybe it'll be the side dish that steals the show! And if you love cheesy recipes, you'll want to check out my Cottage Cheese Alfredo!

A spoon scooping creamy baked mac and cheese out of a glass pan.
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese

How do you keep mac and cheese creamy?

Getting creamy mac and cheese can be a challenge, especially when you're using this custard-based method. That's why I'm sharing my secrets with you to make this southern baked mac and cheese just as creamy as can be!

But before we continue, these are secrets! I'm sure I can trust you guys to keep it on the hush. But just make sure no one is looking over your shoulder while you read this. Ok, if the coast is clear, read on...

Creamy baked mac and cheese recipe in a pan.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Secret #1: Overcook your macaroni

Normally, you would want to cook your macaroni until it's al dente -- that is, it still has a bit of a chew to it. But for best results in this recipe, forget everything you learned from Giada de Laurentiis and boil your macaroni for two minutes longer than the maximum time listed on the package directions.

For example, the macaroni I used instructed me to cook elbow macaroni for 8-10 minutes, so I set my timer for 12 minutes.

So how does this make your southern baked macaroni and cheese creamier? Well, as your macaroni boils, it absorbs water.

So by boiling it a little longer, we're preventing the cooked noodles from absorbing too much of the milk while it's baking, allowing more of the milk to form that creamy, cheesy, custardy filling around the cooked pasta. Trust me-- it works!

southern baked mac and cheese with evaporated milk being scooped out of a pan.
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese with Evaporated Milk

Secret #2: Mascarpone

OK, forget what I said about not being in Italy, because we're using a classic Italian ingredient to add to the creaminess of this soul food baked mac and cheese! Mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese that adds a smooth, mild soft creaminess to bump up the creamy flavor of the cheese filling even further!

I got this idea from my Uncle Glenn, who told me about using mascarpone many Thanksgivings ago when I asked him how his mac n cheese recipe was so amazing! The mascarpone really takes it up a notch and makes this the best baked mac and cheese recipe!

Spoon scooping southern baked mac and cheese.

Secret #3: Coat your macaroni in butter

You may have gathered from secret #1 that the key to making this easy baked mac and cheese super creamy is keeping the macaroni from absorbing too much liquid as it bakes. That's what this step is about as well! We're going to toss the cooked macaroni in butter before adding the other ingredients.

This creates a barrier that prevents the other liquids from penetrating the macaroni as it bakes. It should help you to end up with more cheesy custard filling that makes the finished dish delicious!

A metal spoon spooning baked macaroni and cheese from a glass dish.
Baked macaroni and cheese

Not-So-Secret #4: Freshly Grated Cheese

This definitely isn't much of a secret. But you'd be surprised how many people still use pre-shredded cheese to make their macaroni and cheese! It's so much faster, but pre-shredded cheese is often coated with cellulose (wood pulp!) to prevent it from sticking together, which dries it out significantly. This dryness will then translate into your dishes, which we definitely don't want.

For this southern baked macaroni and cheese, you should definitely buy your cheese in blocks and grate it yourself to keep the sauce nice and creamy. It's an extra step, but makes a huge difference in how the cheese melts!

Southern baked mac and cheese being scooped out of a dish.
southern baked Mac and cheese

What are the 3 best cheeses for mac and cheese?

First, I like to use one semi-hard aged cheese like sharp cheddar. Then one creamy cheese that melts well, like mild cheddar, mozzarella or Monterey Jack. And finally, an extra-creamy cheese like mascarpone or cream cheese just to add to the creaminess of your southern baked mac and cheese recipe!

What milk is best for mac and cheese?

For me, evaporated milk is the way to go. Making old fashioned baked mac and cheese with evaporated milk is second nature to me. And I think it produces the creamiest results!

Evaporated milk also works with the egg to create that custard filling that I just love. Here's everything else you'll need:

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Ingredients

Check the recipe card below for the full ingredient measurements and instructions, but here's a quick look at the simple ingredients you'll need to make this delicious baked mac and cheese!

  • elbow macaroni - you'll need 8 ounces of elbow pasta (or small shells, or cavatappi, or whatever different pasta shapes you prefer. I find elbow macaroni is best for holding all that yummy cheese). So it's about half of a one-pound box of macaroni.
  • butter - I use salted, but you can use either salted or unsalted butter and adjust your seasonings accordingly.
  • extra sharp cheddar cheese - This cheese forms is the largest portion of the flavors in this soul food mac and cheese, so be sure to get the good stuff! I like to use a really good quality sharp white cheddar cheese that's been aged at least 12 months for the most flavor. It should come in a block for you to grate your own cheese -- trust me, it makes a big difference in this southern mac and cheese recipe!
  • mild cheddar cheese - you can also use any mild, melty cheese you like. Mild cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, fontina, or Monterey Jack cheese all work! Again, in block form for you to grate yourself.
  • mascarpone cheese - that's right, we're using three types of cheese in this southern baked macaroni and cheese! Mascarpone is the best cheese to create this creamy sauce. Your mascarpone should be at room temperature.
  • milk - I recommend whole milk for a creamier custard and to prevent the custard from curdling. It should also be at room temperature.
  • evaporated milk - helps to create that amazing custard texture in this homemade baked macaroni!
  • salt - you can adjust the amount of salt to your taste, along with the seasonings below, before adding your egg. That way to you end up with too much salt.
  • cajun or creole seasoning - I like the flavor boost from creole seasoning in this southern baked mac and cheese, especially with the blend of cheeses. I like Tony Chachere's. If you don't have any, you can substitute a half teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  • dry mustard powder - adds a slight tangy flavor that goes so well with the cheese in this baked mac and cheese recipe. In a pinch, I've substituted dijon mustard for ground mustard.
  • ground nutmeg - I always have whole nutmeg on hand to grate fresh, but in this recipe ground nutmeg works great too in this classic homemade mac and cheese.
  • egg - beaten well.
  • cracked black pepper - to add to the top before baking. You can also add paprika or more cajun seasoning.
southern baked Mac and cheese scooping out of a pan.
southern baked Mac and cheese

How do you make southern mac and cheese from scratch?

This is such an easy baked mac and cheese recipe! Check the recipe card below for the full instructions, but here's how to make it, step by step!

  1. First, cook your macaroni noodles until they're nice and tender, drain it, and stir in some butter.
  2. Then you'll combine your milks and mascarpone in a large bowl and whisk it to make sure it's all smooth.
  3. Add in your grated cups of cheese and seasonings, then stir in your buttered macaroni and your egg.
  4. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish or casserole dish, then top with remaining cheese and bake until it's golden brown and bubbling!
  5. Let it cool for a bit out of the oven, and then enjoy your easy southern mac and cheese!

Equipment

The first thing you'll need for this simple macaroni and cheese is a cheese grater. Then all you'll need is a a 3-quart casserole pan or 9x13 baking pan and a stock pot to boil your pasta!

Baked Mac and Cheese Tips and F.A.Q.

What does putting an egg in mac and cheese do?

It's a matter of texture. In this recipe, we're going for a creamy, yet slightly firm custard-like filling. It's a texture that is distinct from stovetop macaroni and cheese. Many baked macaroni and cheese recipes use a roux to make a cheese sauce on the stovetop, and then transfer the mac and cheese to a dish, add more cheese and/or bread crumbs, and bake it. That's why I do in my Smoked Mac and Cheese with Bacon!

In my experience, the texture is different in a roux-based mac and cheese than with a custard mac and cheese. So making our southern baked mac and cheese evaporated milk and egg makes it come out a bit firmer and more casserole-like, but still able to achieve that rich creaminess that we all love! Plus, you won't have to add the extra step of making a roux -- everyone loves an easy southern mac and cheese recipe!

A detailed view of a spoon serving a portion of cheesy southern baked mac and cheese.

Why use evaporated milk in mac and cheese?

If you've ever made a pumpkin pie, a flan, or my Eggnog Bread Pudding, you may be familiar with evaporated milk. Evaporated milk is simply milk where some of the water has, well, evaporated. Because of the missing water, it has a higher protein content than regular milk. That makes everything creamier without adding extra fat (the way heavy cream would). It's perfect in baked goods when you want to create a custard made from eggs and milk, because it adds extra creaminess compared to regular milk.

What is the difference between evaporated milk and regular milk?

Evaporated milk has more protein than regular milk, but less fat than heavy cream, which gives this easy baked macaroni and cheese a thick, creamy filling without too much greasiness. It's also not refrigerated in most places, so you can get it in the baking aisle or on Amazon! Evaporated milk is a major ingredient in my Banana Pudding Cheesecake Squares!

Spoon scooping southern baked mac and cheese.

What cheese should I use for mac and cheese?

This is really up to you! I usually use at least one block of cheddar, sometimes one block of sharp cheddar and one block of mild cheddar. Other times, I switch it up and replace one of the cheddars with monterey jack, gouda, or mozzarella. Any semisoft shredded cheeses work great in this easy baked mac and cheese recipe.

What seasoning makes mac and cheese better?

I make this easy baked mac and cheese recipe with mustard powder and a Creole seasoning blend like Tony Chachere's. But in general some other flavors I like to add to mac and cheese recipes (in addition to salt and pepper) are cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Can I make this southern baked mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare your mac and cheese the night before and bake the following day. Just complete all the steps except the last one (baking), and place in the fridge covered with plastic wrap. The next day, bake in preheated oven as normal, although you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
 Creamy baked mac and cheese recipe in a pan.

Can this baked mac and cheese be frozen?

Yes, this southern baked mac and cheese freezes very well! Just cool the mac and cheese completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw, still wrapped, in the fridge before baking as usual. I actually use this method to make my mac and cheese ahead of time for most Thanksgivings! You can also freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to two months.

Why is mac and cheese popular in the South?

Mac and cheese gained popularity as a southern food after James Hemmings, the enslaved chef to Thomas Jefferson, mastered the recipe. It then became a celebration dish among Black people in the south, remaining popular to this day.

What can I add to my mac and cheese to make it better?

I prefer this easy southern mac and cheese as-is, but you can always mix in a few dollops of sour cream for creaminess. You can also add different types of cheese to your preference -- this Chick-Fil-A mac and cheese recipe uses Parmesan and Romano cheeses! I also love adding crispy chopped bacon for smokiness, sliced green onions, or a few splashes of hot sauce!

Spoon scooping southern baked mac and cheese.

Is mac and cheese at Thanksgiving Southern?

Yes, old fashioned mac and cheese with evaporated milk is a southern classic for the Thanksgiving table! It's popular in the south all year long.

Can I use condensed milk instead of evaporated milk in mac and cheese?

Please don't! Condensed milk is also called "sweetened" condensed milk, because it's got a lot of sugar added. It's more appropriate for dessert recipes like my Lemon Dump Cake or my Key Lime Pound Cake, not this old fashioned baked macaroni and cheese!

What is the best mac and cheese in the world?

You're lookin' at it! But seriously, in my humble opinion, this is the best mac and cheese and it's the one I make over and over again! Try it, and you'll see why!

A detailed view of a spoon serving a portion of cheesy southern baked mac and cheese.

More Holiday Recipes You'll Love

I love cooking for the holidays! If you're looking for something to go with this amazing mac and cheese, try my Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes, or check out my Keto Cranberry Sauce, perfect for guests following a low-carb diet. Or try this Slow Cooker Beef Cube Steak!

For dessert, there are so many options! You can't go wrong with Lemon Sour Cream Pound Cake, No Bake Cheesecake, or Rum Soaked Cake with Brown Butter Glaze!

And nothing says holiday baking like cookies! My all-time favorites are my No Spread Sugar Cookies, but you also have to try my Brown Butter Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies! Display them all nicely on a Christmas Charcuterie Board, and don't forget to check out my lists of the Best Gluten Free Dairy Free Cookies Recipes and the Best Cookies for a Cookie Exchange!

If you try this recipe, I would love it if you could leave a star review rating and comment below! It’s so wonderful hearing your feedback! And don’t forget to share your creations with me by tagging @chenee_today on Instagram!

📖 Recipe

Spoon scooping southern baked mac and cheese.

Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese - Easy Recipe

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Creamy southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe with a secret ingredient is always one of my most popular recipes! This is the best southern baked mac and cheese recipe, the ultimate comfort food for Sunday dinner or a holiday celebration! You'll love this old fashioned mac and cheese with evaporated milk!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine :American
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 463kcal
Recipe Source: Chenée Lewis

Equipment you may need

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (227 g) elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoon (30 ml) unsalted butter - plus more for baking dish
  • 1 large egg - beaten, room temperature
  • 1 13 oz. can evaporated milk
  • 1 cup (366 g) whole milk - room temperature
  • 8 oz (227 g) extra-sharp white cheddar cheese - good quality
  • 12 oz (227 g) mild cheddar cheese - or another mild cheese like monterey jack, fontina, colby jack, or gouda
  • 8 oz (227 g) mascarpone cheese - room temperature
  • 1½ tsp. (9 g) salt - or to taste (taste mixture before adding egg)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) cajun or creole seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon (2 ml) dry mustard powder - or 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • ⅛ teaspoon (1 ml) ground nutmeg
  • fresh cracked pepper - for topping

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a 3-quart casserole dish or 9x13 pan with butter or spray with cooking spray.
  • Cook macaroni in unsalted water according to package directions, adding 2 minutes to the maximum time listed on the package (I usually aim for 12 minutes). Drain; stir butter into macaroni until butter is melted.
    2 cups elbow macaroni, 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • While macaroni is boiling, shred cheese blocks using a box grater or food processor. Combine shredded cheese varieties until evenly mixed.
    8 oz extra-sharp white cheddar cheese, 12 oz mild cheddar cheese
  • In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone and evaporated milk until smooth (there may still be some lumps, which are okay).
    8 oz mascarpone cheese, 1 13 oz. can evaporated milk
  • Mix in the milk, followed by the salt, creole seasoning, mustard powder, and nutmeg.
    1 cup whole milk, 1½ tsp. salt, 1 teaspoon cajun or creole seasoning, ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder, ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Add buttered macaroni to the bowl, followed by ½ of cheese. Stir to combine.
  • Taste mixture to see if seasonings are to your preference and adjust if necessary. Stir in beaten egg.
    1 large egg
  • Pour half of mixture into a 9x13 baking dish, using a spoon to distribute evenly if needed. Sprinkle half of remaining cheese on top, then repeat with remaining macaroni mixture and remaining cheese. Top with some fresh cracked pepper, if you like.
    fresh cracked pepper
  • Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cheese on top is melted and filling is bubbling. If you prefer a browner top, place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so it doesn't burn. Cool about 15 minutes before serving to let the filling set.

Video

Notes

Make-ahead instructions: You can prepare this baked mac and cheese the night before and bake the following day! Just complete all the steps except the last one (baking), and place in the fridge covered with plastic wrap. The next day, bake in preheated oven as normal, although you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the cook time. 
Freezing: This soul food baked mac and cheese freezes very well! Just cool the mac and cheese completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw, still wrapped, in the fridge before baking as usual.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 463 kcal | Carbohydrates: 28 g | Protein: 24 g | Fat: 28 g | Saturated Fat: 17 g | Cholesterol: 107 mg | Sodium: 872 mg | Potassium: 435 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 12 g | Calcium: 628 mg | Iron: 1 mg
Nutrition Disclaimer
Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can't wait to see (and share) your results! Follow me on Instagram at @chenee_today and tag #cheneetoday!

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Last Updated on November 23, 2024 by Chenée Lewis

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Comments

    4.94 from 132 votes

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  1. Yolonda Johnson-Young says

    5 stars
    I grew up making a roux-style Mac and Cheese that my mother taught me. Sometimes, I feel sad making it this new way. But, I know she would've loved it.

    Reply

    • Chenée Lewis says

      That's beautiful Yolonda -- thank you so much, and it's an honor to know that your mother would have enjoyed this version.

      Reply

  2. Jennifer says

    5 stars
    This one is a keeper. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Chenée Lewis says

      Thank you so much!! It's my favorite for sure!

      Reply

  3. Cheryl says

    5 stars
    I'm adding this recipe to my Thanksgiving menu this year.

    Thank you!

    Reply

    • Chenée Lewis says

      I'm sure you'll like it!

      Reply

      • Jennifer Reynolds says

        5 stars
        All I can say is Yum...

      • Chenée Lewis says

        I'm right there with you!! I love this mac and cheese!