Description
A rich, creamy, and ultra-cheesy Southern-style baked mac and cheese with layers of tender pasta and gooey melted cheese, baked until golden and comforting.
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain well.
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, eggs, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Layer half of the macaroni in the baking dish and top with half of each cheese.
- Add remaining macaroni and finish with remaining cheeses.
- Pour milk mixture evenly over the macaroni.
- Dot the top with butter.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.
- Letting it rest helps the mac set properly.
- Pairs well with fried chicken or greens.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern