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:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- 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.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- 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.
