Get ready to cozy up with these creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipes from Paula Deen! Whether you’re a Southern belle or just a comfort food enthusiast, these 20 mouthwatering variations are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese to bold flavor combinations like spicy jalapeño and lobster-infused dishes, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy baked pasta, featuring an array of cheeses, meats, vegetables, and spices that will make your taste buds sing. From comforting staples to innovative twists, each recipe is carefully crafted by Paula Deen herself, ensuring that every bite is pure bliss.
Classic Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting, creamy classic that’s sure to become a family favorite! This recipe combines perfectly cooked macaroni with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy baked top.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Baked Macaroni with Bacon
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy macaroni dish, smothered in a velvety cheese sauce and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This classic comfort food recipe is a crowd-pleaser, featuring three types of cheese and a golden-brown crust. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add melted butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy mac ‘n cheese recipe. The addition of jalapeños adds a bold kick that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together; cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, heavy cream, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, jalapeños, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Lobster
Elevate a classic comfort food by adding the luxurious twist of lobster to this creamy baked macaroni and cheese. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or as a decadent treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (cooked and chopped)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine melted butter, garlic, and cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked lobster meat and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture. Transfer to a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this easy and indulgent recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the comfort of baked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated parmesan cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Get ready to elevate your mac ‘n cheese game with this spicy twist! This creamy, cheesy dish combines the comfort of baked pasta with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the chicken mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork
This creamy, cheesy casserole combines the classic comfort food of macaroni and cheese with the rich flavor of pulled pork. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup pulled pork
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture, and pulled pork in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Truffle Oil Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this decadent Truffle Oil Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Rich truffle oil adds a deep, earthy flavor to the classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add truffle oil, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until smooth.
5. Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture in the prepared baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni and cheese is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
A comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe adds sweet and savory depth with caramelized onions.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and cheese mixture in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Spinach and Artichokes
Elevate the classic comfort food by adding nutritious spinach and artichoke hearts to a creamy baked macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add cooked macaroni, spinach, artichoke hearts, heavy cream, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs is a comforting dish that combines the classic comfort food with a satisfying crunch. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until well coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Smoked Gouda
A creamy, comforting twist on a classic comfort food dish, this baked macaroni and cheese recipe incorporates the rich flavor of smoked Gouda for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and smoked Gouda cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pimento Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying recipe, combining the classic combo of macaroni and cheese with the tangy twist of pimento cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add pimento cheese, melted butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Roasted Red Peppers
This classic comfort food gets a sweet twist with the addition of roasted red peppers, adding a pop of color and flavor to this creamy macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped red peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine milk, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese. Heat over low, stirring constantly, until smooth and melted.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, roasted red peppers, and cheese sauce in a large baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown and sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate the comfort food classic by adding the sweet and savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes to your baked macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, then stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until combined.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Butternut Squash
A comforting twist on the classic mac ‘n cheese, this recipe adds a delicious and nutritious boost from roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups butternut squash puree
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine butternut squash puree, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Prosciutto
This recipe combines the comfort of baked macaroni and cheese with the salty, crispy goodness of prosciutto. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with chopped prosciutto and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Fresh Herbs
A creamy, comforting casserole that combines the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese with the bright, freshness of herbs. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a Crunchy Cornflake Topping
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this comforting, creamy recipe featuring a satisfying crunchy cornflake topping. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cornflakes crumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and cook over medium heat until thickened.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish. Top with cornflakes crumbs and drizzle with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy, cheesy goodness! Paula Deen shares her top 20 baked macaroni and cheese recipes, each with its own twist. From classic Southern comfort food to spicy jalapeño kicks and luxurious lobster additions, there’s a recipe for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for smoky gouda or crispy prosciutto, these creamy dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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