Are you a fan of comfort food? Do you crave something warm, cheesy, and indulgent to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than classic Southern mac and cheese! This beloved dish has been a staple in many households for generations, and for good reason. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the perfect recipe to cozy up with on a chilly day or serve at your next family gathering.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering Southern mac and cheese recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From traditional takes on the classic dish to more adventurous variations featuring smoked gouda, jalapeños, and even lobster, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy, dreamy recipes.
Traditional Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
A creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s a staple of Southern cuisine. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp work well)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux; cook for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer; remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheesy sauce.
8. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Three-Cheese Southern Mac and Cheese
Get ready to experience a comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese with this creamy three-cheese southern recipe. With a blend of cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 3 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring frequently.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
8. Transfer to baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Style Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
A creamy, smoky twist on a classic comfort food dish.
Spicy Jalapeño Southern Mac and Cheese
Spicy Jalapeño Southern Mac and Cheese: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
This creamy macaroni dish gets a spicy kick from jalapeños, adding a bold and zesty flavor to the classic Southern comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 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 medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add chopped jalapeños and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Buttermilk Mac and Cheese
This classic Southern macaroni and cheese gets a tangy twist with the addition of buttermilk, resulting in a rich and creamy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp 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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly whisk in buttermilk and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated cheese (optional) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Classic Southern Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Get ready to savor a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! This creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work best)
– 1 cup grated Colby or Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups milk
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 together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Colby/Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Bacon and Chives
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a boost of smoky flavor from crispy bacon and the freshness of chives. It’s a comfort food staple that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
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 mixing bowl, combine cooked bacon, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped chives on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Lobster Mac and Cheese
A creamy comfort food classic gets a luxurious upgrade with succulent lobster meat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese, divided
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz lobster meat (cooked, flaked)
– 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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk into a smooth paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese (1 cup) until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, lobster meat, and mozzarella cheese. Pour the cheese sauce over top and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese (1/2 cup).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
This creamy macaroni dish is elevated by a crunchy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing side. With a rich, velvety sauce and al dente pasta, this Southern classic will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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 add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted.
6. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
Get ready to savor the comforting, creamy goodness of a true Southern classic – macaroni and cheese elevated by sweet and savory caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese with 1/2 cup milk. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and cheese mixture in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Pulled Pork
A comforting, creamy casserole that combines the richness of pulled pork with a classic macaroni and cheese dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 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
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup pulled pork (slow-cooked or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. 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 mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, pulled pork, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Roasted Garlic
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional macaroni and cheese with the rich, caramelized flavor of roasted garlic. The result is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 cloves garlic, roasted (see below)
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Roasted Garlic:
– 4-6 garlic cloves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, roasted garlic, and butter. Whisk until smooth and heated through.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Spinach and Artichokes
A creamy, comforting twist on a classic Southern favorite, this macaroni and cheese dish adds the richness of spinach and artichoke hearts for a delightful surprise.
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 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, whisk together milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Add cooked macaroni, spinach, and artichoke hearts; stir until combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Cajun Seasoning
Get ready to spice up your macaroni and cheese game with this bold Southern twist, infused with the unmistakable flavor of Cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Colby jack cheese
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Colby jack cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add Cajun seasoning and stir to combine.
9. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
10. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Fried Chicken Topping
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this creamy, cheesy masterpiece topped with crispy fried chicken. This Southern-inspired dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– All-purpose flour for dredging
– Vegetable oil for frying
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 cream, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until combined.
6. Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish and top with crispy fried chicken (see below).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Fried Chicken Topping:
1. Dredge chicken breasts in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Fry in hot oil until cooked through and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Elevate the classic macaroni and cheese game by adding a rich and creamy alfredo sauce, inspired by the Southern comfort food tradition. This indulgent dish is perfect for cozy nights in or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 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. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add alfredo sauce and mix well.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Sweet Corn and Bell Peppers
This comforting dish combines the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the natural sweetness of corn and bell peppers, creating a delightful twist on a classic recipe.
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 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn, thawed
– 1 bell pepper, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, sweet corn, and bell pepper with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Southern Mac and Cheese with Truffle Oil and Herbs
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavors of truffle oil, fresh herbs, and a hint of Southern charm. This creamy comfort dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Add cooked macaroni, truffle oil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a taste of Southern comfort with these 18 creamy mac and cheese recipes! From classic baked mac to smoked gouda, spicy jalapeño, and even lobster, there’s something for everyone. These Southern-style mac and cheeses incorporate flavors like buttermilk, chives, caramelized onions, and pulled pork to give you a rich and satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or adventurous, these recipes will guide you through a culinary journey from the South. So go ahead, indulge in the creamy goodness!
