Southern-Style Macaroni & Cheese

Southern-Style Macaroni & Cheese

My grandma’s recipe for Southern Mac & Cheese made the traditional “custard-style” way using eggs and evaporated milk then baked to golden, cheesy perfection.

Ingredients

  • elbow macaroni noodles
    1 lb
  • cheddar cheese

    shredded

    24 oz
  • 12-oz cans evaporated milk
    3
  • eggs
    3
  • salt
    1 ½ tsp
  • pepper
    1 tsp
  • dry mustard powder
    1 tsp
  • cayenne pepper
  • butter
    ½ stick

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook noodles in liberally salted water one minute less than the package instructions for al dente preparation. Drain noodles then set aside.

  2. 2

    While noodles are cooking, shred cheese, reserving two cups of cheese for the top layer.

  3. 3

    Combine evaporated milk, eggs, salt, pepper, mustard powder and cayenne pepper in a large bowl and mix thoroughly (make sure the eggs are well combined into the mixture).

  4. 4

    Spray a 3-quart 13x9 baking dish with cooking spray.

  5. 5

    Layer noodles and cheese evenly into baking dish (aim for about 4 layers of noodles.

  6. 6

    Sprinkle reserved 2 cups of cheese evenly over everything then pour milk mixture evenly over noodles and cheese.

  7. 7

    Cut butter into thin pats then place them evenly on top of cheese.

  8. 8

    Bake, uncovered for 40-45 minutes at 350 degrees or until cheese is lightly browned and dish is bubbly.

  9. 9

    Remove from oven then let rest 20 minutes before serving. Don't skip this step... if you dig into this right out of the oven the inside will be soupy. The dish needs time to "set up".

Southern-Style Macaroni & Cheese

Southern-Style Macaroni & Cheese

80 min

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About this Recipe

Craving that incredibly rich, creamy, and undeniably cheesy comfort food your grandma used to make? This Southern-Style Macaroni & Cheese recipe delivers exactly that, bringing a beloved classic straight to your kitchen table.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its authentic custard-style preparation. Using a perfect blend of eggs and evaporated milk, it creates an unbelievably velvety texture that envelops every elbow macaroni noodle, ensuring a dish that's never dry or bland. Baked to golden, bubbling perfection, it’s a taste of tradition that feels both special and deeply comforting.

When you dive into this Southern Mac & Cheese, expect an irresistible symphony of flavors and textures. You’ll be greeted by tender elbow macaroni swimming in a luscious, savory cheese sauce, with a hint of warmth from dry mustard and a gentle kick from cayenne pepper. The top bakes into a delightful golden crust, while the interior remains wonderfully gooey and creamy. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that embodies the very essence of soul food and home cooking, perfect for any gathering or a cozy family meal.

This classic baked macaroni and cheese is incredibly versatile. While cheddar cheese is the star here, you can adjust the kick from the cayenne pepper to suit your preference, from just a whisper to a more noticeable warmth. For an extra touch of flavor, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add depth, complementing the rich cheddar. This dish is naturally hearty as a side but can easily be a comforting main course.

Serve this beloved Southern-style casserole at potlucks, holiday dinners, or alongside your favorite BBQ. It’s the ultimate side dish that truly shines on its own and perfectly complements any hearty meal, guaranteeing smiles all around.

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