The Ultimate Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe You’ll Never Forget

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There’s something about Southern baked macaroni and cheese that stirs more than just your appetite—it evokes warmth, comfort, and memories of family dinners and Sunday soul food spreads. You’ve probably tasted mac and cheese before, but the Southern version? That’s a whole different story.

This isn’t just about tossing cheese into a pot and calling it a day. This dish has structure. It’s creamy without being soupy, firm without being dry, and unapologetically rich. If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect Southern baked mac and cheese recipe—the one that earns you praise at potlucks and comfort on rainy nights—your search ends here.

Let’s dive in and make something unforgettable.

What Makes Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese So Special?

You’ve likely seen many versions of macaroni and cheese, from quick stovetop styles to boxed mixes. But Southern baked mac and cheese is built differently.

This is not the liquidy, overly creamy version you might find elsewhere. It’s more like a cheesy casserole or macaroni pie—holding its shape when you cut into it, yet remaining decadently soft and flavorful inside.

It’s the type of dish that graces holiday tables, accompanies crispy fried chicken, or stands tall all by itself as a meal. It’s deeply satisfying, generously cheesy, and layered with a depth of flavor that only real ingredients can bring.

Southern mac and cheese is comfort food at its finest—classic, unpretentious, and always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients for the Best Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Cheeses You’ll Need

8 ounces medium cheddar cheese (shredded)
8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

Medium cheddar melts smooth and creamy, while the extra sharp cheddar adds bold flavor and a firmer texture. This combination gives you that perfect balance of richness and structure.

Other Essential Ingredients

16 ounces elbow macaroni
⅓ cup butter
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon white pepper
½ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 ½ cups 2% milk

These ingredients create a creamy roux-based cheese sauce with just the right hint of spice. The cayenne doesn’t make it spicy—it simply deepens the flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1 – Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for 8 to 9 minutes, just until al dente. Don’t overcook—it will continue to cook while baking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2 – Make the Roux

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s fully melted, whisk in the flour along with the white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Continue whisking for a couple of minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and turns golden.

This roux is your flavor foundation. Take your time here and don’t rush the process.

Step 3 – Build the Cheese Sauce

Slowly add the milk, half a cup at a time, whisking constantly. Let each addition fully incorporate before adding the next. This method ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.

Once all the milk is added and the sauce is warm, stir in all of the medium cheddar cheese and half of the extra sharp cheddar. Stir until completely melted and the sauce is thick, creamy, and smooth.

Step 4 – Combine and Bake

Fold in the cooked macaroni and mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated with cheese sauce. Pour everything into a greased 3-quart baking dish.

Top the dish with the remaining extra sharp cheddar. This layer will melt into a golden, cheesy crust that defines Southern baked mac.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and slightly browned.

Southern Macaroni and Cheese Tips & Substitutions

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Don’t use pre-shredded cheese. It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Always cook pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta turns mushy when baked.
Use full-fat dairy for the best texture and richness.
Let the baked mac rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets properly.

Acceptable Substitutions

Want to experiment a little? While the original combo of medium and extra sharp cheddar creates the classic Southern flavor and texture, here are a few options:

Swap in gouda or fontina for a creamier finish.
Add a little Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
Stay away from aged cheeses or low-fat versions—they often result in a grainy or greasy sauce.

What to Serve With Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Southern baked mac and cheese pairs well with just about anything, but here are a few favorite combinations:

Crispy oven-baked chicken for the ultimate comfort meal
Honey rosemary pork chops to balance the richness with sweet and savory notes
Fresh garden salad to add a refreshing contrast
Classic Southern sides like roasted butternut squash, maple-glazed carrots with bacon, or sweet potato casserole bites

No matter what you serve it with, this mac and cheese will always be the star of the plate.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 large scoop (approx. 1/8 of dish)
Calories: 538
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 19g
Cholesterol: 90mg

These numbers may vary slightly depending on the brand of cheese and butter used, but it’s clear—this is an indulgent dish meant to be savored.

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese FAQ

What is the best cheese combination for Southern baked mac and cheese?

The ideal combo is medium cheddar for creaminess and extra sharp cheddar for structure and bold flavor. This pairing gives you that Southern-style texture—creamy but sliceable—and a cheese pull that’s unforgettable.

Can you freeze Southern baked macaroni and cheese?

You can, but fresh is always better. If you need to freeze it, bake the dish just long enough to brown the top, then cool it completely. Wrap it tightly and freeze. Reheat covered at 350°F until warmed through. Note that the texture might change slightly due to the dairy content.

What’s the difference between Southern mac and cheese and regular mac and cheese?

Southern mac and cheese is baked, structured, and often made with a roux and a blend of sharp cheeses. It’s not runny or overly creamy—it’s firm enough to slice, yet still rich and flavorful. It’s also more likely to be served as a main dish, not just a side.

Conclusion

Southern baked macaroni and cheese isn’t just a recipe—it’s a tradition. It’s passed from one generation to the next, perfected by grandmothers and cherished at every family gathering. With its balance of creamy sauce, bold cheeses, and golden crust, this dish is a masterpiece of comfort food.

Now that you’ve got the step-by-step guide and the inside tips, it’s your turn to bring this beloved classic to life. Make it for your next holiday dinner, serve it as the centerpiece at a Sunday meal, or whip it up on a rainy day when only cheese and carbs will do.

There’s something magical about Southern mac and cheese, and once you’ve made it yourself, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in the hearts (and kitchens) of so many. Try it, savor it, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to recipe for years to come.

More Delicious Recipes

Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: This comforting side dish combines the rich creaminess of cheese with the earthy goodness of broccoli. Much like Southern baked macaroni and cheese, it’s hearty, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser at any family gathering or holiday table.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole: A cozy casserole that layers tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory stuffing. Its homestyle flavors and baked texture pair beautifully with cheesy sides like mac and cheese, making it a perfect addition to your comfort food rotation.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: This classic dish features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, cheesy sauce. The texture and flavor closely resemble that of baked mac and cheese, offering the same indulgent experience with a different base ingredient.