How to Make Grandma’s Southern Baked Mac & Cheese

This recipe for Grandma’s Southern Baked Mac & Cheese is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

How to Make Grandma’s Southern Baked Mac & Cheese:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 3 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the macaroni.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let the mac & cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

About the Main Ingredients:

• Macaroni: The choice of pasta in this dish, macaroni’s small size and tubular shape make it perfect for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: The sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor to the dish and melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the cheddar.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the dish and helps create a crispy, golden topping.
• Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture to the top of the mac & cheese, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
• Butter and Flour: Used to create a roux, which thickens the cheese sauce and adds richness to the dish.
• Milk: Provides the base for the cheese sauce, adding creaminess and helping to bind the ingredients together.
• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Paprika: These seasonings add flavor and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall taste of the mac & cheese.