Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style. This mouthwatering classic combines perfectly cooked macaroni with a luscious, cheesy custard, baked until golden and bubbling. Every bite is rich, creamy, and full of bold, soulful flavor, making it the star of any holiday table, potluck, or cozy Sunday dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style lies in its simple, honest ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s delivering creaminess, adding depth of flavor, or giving you that irresistible cheesy pull.

• Elbow macaroni (1 pound): Classic shape that holds onto all that cheesy sauce beautifully.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps coat the pasta and adds rich flavor right from the start.
• Whole milk (3 cups): The base for a creamy, luscious custard.
• Evaporated milk (1 cup): Brings extra creaminess and a touch of old-school soul food authenticity.
• Large eggs, beaten (2): Essential for setting the casserole and giving it that just-firm, sliceable texture.
• Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle savory note that rounds out the cheese.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Lends gentle warmth and depth to every bite.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a lovely hint of color and a mild smokiness.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of bite.
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (3 cups, divided): The backbone for that classic tangy, gooey cheese pull.
• Colby Jack cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melts beautifully and brings a mild, creamy flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1/2 cup): For extra stretch and meltiness.
• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (1/2 cup): Smooth and mellow, it balances out the sharper cheeses.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (1/4 cup, optional): Adds a nutty, salty finish if you want to go all out.
• Sour cream (2 tablespoons, optional): For an ultra-creamy texture that melts into the sauce.

How to Make Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take a moment to generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step may seem simple, but it ensures your Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style lifts out easily and doesn’t stick, preserving those beautiful golden edges.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your elbow macaroni until just al dente. You want the pasta to have a little bite since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain well and return the macaroni to the warm pot, then stir in the butter until it’s melted and silky, coating every noodle.

Step 3: Mix the Custard Base

In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, beaten eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you love your mac and cheese extra creamy, add the sour cream here. This flavorful custard is what sets Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style apart, binding the pasta and cheese together in every glorious forkful.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Cheese, and Custard

Pour the custard mixture over the buttered macaroni and give it a gentle stir. Next, fold in 2 cups of the sharp cheddar, all the Colby Jack, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan if you’re using it. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed, promising a cheesy bite in every spoonful.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar over the top for that signature golden crust. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is bubbling and perfectly browned. For a little extra crunch, broil during the last few minutes, but watch closely!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style rest for 10 minutes. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve those irresistible squares of cheesy goodness.

How to Serve Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich, cheesy layers. For a little extra Southern flair, dust the top with a pinch more paprika just before serving.

Side Dishes

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style is a showstopper on its own, but it pairs beautifully with fried chicken, collard greens, candied yams, or a simple green salad. These classic sides turn it into a true soul food feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a fun, personalized touch, or serve it family-style in a cast iron skillet for rustic charm. Leftovers can also be scooped into muffin tins and baked for portable, party-ready bites!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making it a fantastic next-day treat.

Freezing

For longer storage, let the mac and cheese cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps that top nice and crispy.

FAQs

What makes Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style different from other versions?

The soul food style is all about richness, creaminess, and bold flavors. The use of eggs and a custard base sets it apart, creating a casserole that’s firm enough to slice but still decadently creamy inside. Plus, the blend of real cheeses (not just sauce) delivers the ultimate comfort food experience.

Can I use other kinds of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a must for that signature flavor, feel free to mix in cheeses like Gouda, pepper jack, or smoked provolone for your own twist. Just make sure to include a blend that melts well and has good flavor.

Is it necessary to use both whole milk and evaporated milk?

Yes, if you want the true creamy depth that defines Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style. Evaporated milk adds a richness and stability you just can’t get from regular milk alone, but if you’re out, you can substitute with half-and-half in a pinch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I keep my mac and cheese from drying out?

Don’t overbake it, and make sure you use enough liquid in your custard base. Covering with foil if reheating also helps retain moisture. Adding that little bit of sour cream can also boost creaminess and prevent dryness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s guaranteed to win hearts and spark happy memories, Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style has to be on your table. It’s cheesy, comforting, and every bite tastes like home. Give it a try, and you might just start a new family tradition!

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food Style is a rich and creamy comfort food classic. Featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, this recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a flavorful milk and egg mixture, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or potlucks, it delivers a crispy cheesy top and a velvety smooth interior that embodies traditional soul food flavors.

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Ingredients

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Pasta and Butter

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Milk and Egg Mixture

• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for creaminess)

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cheeses

• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
• 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside so it’s ready when you finish preparing the macaroni and cheese.
2. Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the macaroni well and return it to the pot.
3. Add Butter: Stir the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter into the hot macaroni until melted and evenly distributed, creating a slight richness in the pasta before adding the cheese sauce.
4. Prepare Milk Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, beaten eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If using, add the sour cream to enhance creaminess. Mix well until fully combined.
5. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Mixture: Pour the milk and egg mixture into the macaroni and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Add 2 cups of sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix until the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the macaroni.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
7. Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture to create a cheesy crust when baked.
8. Bake: Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted throughout.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.

Notes

• For an extra crispy top, broil the macaroni and cheese for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
• You can customize the cheese blend according to your preference, but sharp cheddar is essential for the authentic Southern flavor.
• This dish is perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks, offering a nostalgic comfort food experience.
• If you want a richer and creamier texture, do not skip the optional sour cream.
• Use freshly grated cheeses for the best melting and flavor results.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 115mg