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Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese - Easy Recipe

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this classic Southern baked mac and cheese. This easy recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter plus more for baking dish
  • 1 large egg beaten, room temperature
  • 13 oz evaporated milk
  • 1 cup whole milk room temperature
  • 8 oz extra-sharp white cheddar cheese good quality
  • 12 oz mild cheddar cheese or another mild cheese like monterey jack, fontina, colby jack, or gouda
  • 8 oz mascarpone cheese room temperature
  • 1.5 tsp salt or to taste (taste mixture before adding egg)
  • 1 tsp cajun or creole seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp dry mustard powder or 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 0.125 tsp ground nutmeg
  • fresh cracked pepper for topping

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions, adding 2 minutes to the maximum time. Drain and stir in butter.
  3. Shred cheese blocks and combine.
  4. Whisk together mascarpone and evaporated milk until smooth.
  5. Mix in the milk, salt, creole seasoning, mustard powder, and nutmeg.
  6. Add buttered macaroni and 1/2 of cheese. Stir to combine.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings. Stir in beaten egg.
  8. Pour half of mixture into baking dish, sprinkle with half of remaining cheese, then repeat. Top with pepper.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and filling is bubbling. Cool before serving.

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, use high-quality cheeses and don't overbake. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.