Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese

The BEST baked mac and cheese recipe, period! This creamy, cheesy, Southern-style mac will be a family favorite. Get my secret to a perfect roux inside!

Alright, gather 'round, buttercups! who here hasn't had a craving for baked mac and cheese ? i'm talking proper comfort food, the kind that hugs you from the inside out.

Honestly, it's a dish that can fix pretty much anything, from a bad day to a blustery autumn evening. let's dive into a recipe that'll become your go-to.

Oh My Goodness, It's the Ultimate Mac!

This isn't just any mac and cheese; this is the ultimate creamy baked mac & cheese . forget those powdered cheese packets, we're making it proper.

This recipe delivers a rich, decadent experience with a velvety cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and that delightful golden-brown crust.

Southern Roots and Family Gatherings

Now, southern baked macaroni and cheese is serious business, a staple at potlucks and holiday dinners. mac and cheese thanksgiving? absolutely.

It is the perfect side dish. this particular recipe draws inspiration from those soulful southern traditions but is easy enough for a weeknight meal.

It takes about 50- 55 minutes to make. this recipe yields a generous 6-8 servings.

Benefits Beyond the Bowl

A top benefit of this recipe is its pure, unadulterated comfort. if you ever get to thinking this is the best mac and cheese, then you have succeeded!.

But beyond that, it's a blank canvas for adding extra nutrients. plus, it's the dish to bring to any gathering where you want to be the mvp of the buffet table.

What makes this good macaroni and cheese recipe special is the balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of nutmeg that elevates the flavour.

This mac and cheese recipe soul food is a must to try! this best n cheese recipe it´s on the top.

Next up, we'll dive into the ingredients!

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make the most glorious baked mac and cheese ever. Trust me, this isn't your average microwave meal.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Building Blocks of Awesome

We're making something special here. Forget processed cheese slices. This good macaroni and cheese recipe starts with quality ingredients.

Main Ingredients: Measuring Up to Greatness

First up, the mac. You will need 1 pound (450g) of elbow macaroni. Go for a decent brand. Trust me, it makes a difference.

For the creamy, dreamy sauce, grab 6 tablespoons (85g) of unsalted butter. good butter is key. you’ll also need ½ cup (60g) of all-purpose flour.

Then, there’s 3 cups (710ml) of whole milk. full fat is the way to go!

Let's talk cheese. 4 cups (450g) of shredded sharp cheddar is essential. buy a block and grate it yourself! plus, you will need 2 cups (225g) of shredded gruyere cheese.

Finally, you will need ½ cup (115g) of sour cream.

Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life

A pinch of nutmeg is crucial! you will need about ½ teaspoon . also, ½ teaspoon of paprika adds a lovely color and a hint of flavor.

Salt and pepper are a must. season to taste! honestly, don’t be shy.

Want a bit of a kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. No cayenne? A dash of your favorite hot sauce will do.

For extra flavor, try a bay leaf while the sauce simmers. Just remember to remove it before adding the cheese!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!

You'll need a big pot to boil the pasta. A saucepan or Dutch oven is a must. This is for the cheese sauce.

Get a whisk ready. This helps to keep the sauce smooth. A 9x13 inch baking dish is also necessary. Lastly, grab your grater! Freshly grated cheese melts better.

No dutch oven? a large, heavy-bottomed pot works fine. no fancy grater? a regular one is perfect. don’t overthink it.

This is about southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe and enjoying the process.

This southern baked mac and cheese will be a hit! especially as a side dish for mac and cheese thanksgiving .

It could be the best macaroni and cheese you have ever made! so get your ingredients together, and get ready to make the ultimate baked macaroni and cheese recipe soul food .

I'm sure you can agree that this is the best mac n cheese recipe to exist.

Okay, let's dive into the world of baked mac and cheese ! honestly, who doesn't love a good bowl of cheesy goodness? it's comfort food at its finest.

Especially around mac and cheese thanksgiving time. you can’t beat a plate of southern baked macaroni and cheese during the holidays, right?

Let's Talk Mac: Prep Like a Pro

Essential Mise en Place

Get everything prepped before you start cooking. that means grating your cheese, measuring out your milk, and chopping any extras you want to chuck in.

Trust me, it makes life so much easier. i always find myself scrambling if i don't.

Time-Saving Organization Tips

Okay, here’s a little secret. grate your cheese the day before! store it in a ziplock bag in the fridge.

This will save you precious time when you are rushing around the kitchen. also, make sure you have all of the equipment you need, like the large pot, dutch oven, whisk, and baking dish ready before you start.

Safety First, Always!

Hot cheese sauce is no joke. be careful when handling the saucepan, especially if you’ve got little ones around. and always use oven mitts when taking your baked mac and cheese out of the oven.

Burns are not worth it!

Get Cooking: Step-by-Step

Alright, time to make some magic! Here’s how we nail the good macaroni and cheese recipe , the best mac and cheese , and a legendary Mac and Cheese Recipe Soul Food :

1. Cook the pasta. Do this until it’s al dente . Think firm. No one likes soggy mac!
2. Make a roux . Melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/2 cup of flour . Cook for 1- 2 minutes , until lightly golden.
3. Whisk in 3 cups of milk , bit by bit. Keep whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer until thickened – about 5- 7 minutes .
4. Take the pan off the heat. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg , 1/2 teaspoon of paprika , salt, and pepper.
5. Add 4 cups of cheddar and 2 cups of Gruyere gradually, and stir until it melts. The cheese has to be completely melted and smooth.
6. Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream for extra richness.
7. Mix the sauce with the pasta. Chuck in all the cooked pasta and mix until everything is coated.
8. Bake it. Pour into a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, if you are feeling fancy. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes .

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Mac

Expert Techniques

Grate your own cheese! Pre-shredded stuff doesn’t melt as well.

Avoid These Mistakes

Don’t overcook the pasta! And don’t rush the roux!

Make-Ahead Option

Assemble the mac and cheese, but don't bake it. wrap it well and stick it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Add 10- 15 minutes to the baking time.

Honestly, this baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a winner. it’s going to bring joy to your kitchen. the southern baked mac and cheese recipe is great for thanksgiving .

Give this best n cheese recipe a go and tell me what you think, yeah?

Alright, so you've got your heart set on making the most amazing baked mac and cheese ? great! now, let's talk about those little things that can make or break your masterpiece.

It's all about the details, innit?

Recipe Notes to elevate your Baked Mac and Cheese

Serving Suggestions: Plating like a pro and what goes with it.

So, you've pulled that southern baked macaroni and cheese from the oven. it's bubbling and golden. now what? honestly, presentation is key.

Plating is about making it look as good as it tastes, yeah? scoop a generous portion and think about adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Oh my gosh! it's like a tiny burst of freshness.

As for sides, think contrasting flavours. a crisp green salad cuts through the richness perfectly. or maybe some roasted asparagus? honestly, if you're making this for mac and cheese thanksgiving , a bit of cranberry sauce on the side wouldn't go amiss.

And a glass of crisp white wine? chef's kiss!

Storage Tips: Keeping it fresh, mate!

Right, so you've made a massive batch. Leftovers are inevitable! Let it cool completely before popping it in an airtight container. It'll happily sit in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Freezing is an option, but be warned, it can change the texture a bit. honestly, the pasta can get a bit mushy.

Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven. a little extra cheese on top during reheating never hurts.

Variations: Swapping ingredients for a twist

Fancy a bit of a change? You can easily tweak this Southern baked mac and cheese recipe . Got someone who can't have gluten? No worries! Just use gluten-free pasta and flour.

If you're feeling adventurous, chuck in some roasted veggies. broccoli or cauliflower work a treat. seasonally, in the autumn, butternut squash would be amazing! trust me, it's a game-changer.

This good macaroni and cheese recipe becomes something truly special.

Nutrition Basics: The good stuff!

Okay, so the best macaroni and cheese isn't exactly a health food, but it's soul food, innit? it does offer a good amount of protein from the cheese and milk.

Just remember, moderation is key. it's good for your soul and the calcium is great for bone health!. plus, that hit of cheesy goodness? instant mood booster! consider it a treat and this mac and cheese recipe soul food will be more than enough!

Ultimately, making baked macaroni and cheese recipe should be fun! don't be afraid to experiment. it's your best mac n cheese recipe after all.

And hey, if it doesn't turn out perfect the first time, don't worry! just keep trying. you'll get there, i promise! now go on, get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my baked mac and cheese grainy?

A grainy mac and cheese is usually down to the cheese sauce. Overheating the cheese sauce, especially after adding the cheese, can cause the proteins to seize up and separate. Remember to use freshly grated cheese and add it off the heat, stirring gently until melted. Think of it like a delicate soufflé, you don't want to bully it!

Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the baked mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover it tightly with cling film, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. Just be aware that the pasta might absorb a bit more of the sauce, so you might need to add a splash of milk before baking to keep it creamy – a bit like reviving a slightly tired shepherd's pie!

What's the best cheese for baked mac and cheese?

A blend of cheeses is the way to go for the most flavourful baked mac and cheese! Sharp cheddar provides that classic tangy flavour, while Gruyere adds a nutty richness. You could also throw in some Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or even a touch of smoked Gouda for a sophisticated twist. It's a bit like picking your dream team of footballers – each cheese brings something unique to the pitch!

How do I store leftover baked mac and cheese?

Leftover baked mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in a splash of milk or cream to rehydrate the sauce. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, covering it with foil to prevent it from drying out. It's almost as good as finding a tenner in your old coat pocket!

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze baked mac and cheese, but the texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating. It's best to freeze it before baking. Assemble the dish, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in cling film and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. The sauce might separate a little, but a good stir after baking should sort it right out - like giving your Nan's gravy a good whisk!

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