The Best Homemade Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Homemade Southern Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that will quickly become a family favorite. You’ll love how creamy, cheesy, and flavorful it is every single time!

Rich and Creamy Texture – The blend of cheeses melts together perfectly, creating gooey, indulgent bites.
Simple Ingredients – With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.
Customizable and Versatile – Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins for a personal touch!

Recipe

This creamy and indulgent Southern mac and cheese recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Made with simple ingredients and baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.

Ingredients:

1 lb elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to make a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
Reduce the heat to low and add 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes:

For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Colby.
Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Equipment:

Large pot
Colander
Large saucepan
Whisk
9×13-inch baking dish

Time:

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes

Cuisine:

Southern

Serving:

8-10 servings

Nutrition

Southern Mac and Cheese is rich and comforting, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

Calories: 450

Total Fat: 25g

Saturated Fat: 15g

Cholesterol: 75mg

Sodium: 600mg

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fiber: 2g

Sugars: 5g

Protein: 20g

What To Serve With It

I always think Fried Chicken Pairings go perfectly with Homemade Southern Mac and Cheese—they’re a classic combo that never disappoints. But if you’re looking for something lighter, don’t skip Vegetable Side Dishes like collard greens or roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides balance the richness of the mac and cheese, making the meal feel complete.

Fried Chicken Pairings

When you’ve got a plate of crispy fried chicken ready to go, figuring out what to pair it with can feel like the best kind of puzzle. I love serving it with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese—it’s a classic combo that never lets me down. A side of fluffy biscuits or cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and texture. If I’m in the mood for something tangy, coleslaw or pickles balance the richness perfectly. Don’t forget a drizzle of honey or hot sauce for an extra kick. These pairings make every bite feel like a cozy, Southern-inspired feast.

Vegetable Side Dishes

If you’re looking to add some freshness to your meal, vegetable side dishes are the way to go. I love balancing the richness of Southern mac and cheese with something light and crisp, like a simple garden salad or steamed broccoli. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a sweet, caramelized touch that pairs beautifully. Sometimes, I’ll whip up a quick cucumber and tomato salad for a revitalizing bite. If I’m feeling fancy, sautéed green beans with garlic hit the spot. These sides not only complement the cheesy goodness but also make the meal feel complete and wholesome.