Soulful Indulgence: Ultra Creamy Southern Baked Mac & Cheese
Introduction:
Ultra Creamy Southern Baked Mac & Cheese is more than a side dish—it is a cultural staple, a celebration food, and a symbol of comfort cooking done right. In Southern kitchens, mac and cheese follows a set of unspoken but deeply respected “regulations”: it must be rich, well-seasoned, creamy on the inside, and beautifully set on top. This is not the boxed variety; it is a baked casserole built on technique, patience, and layered dairy goodness.
What separates Southern-style baked mac and cheese from other versions is its custard-like texture, achieved through a balance of milk, eggs (optional), and cheese. When done correctly, it slices cleanly while remaining luxuriously creamy. This recipe honors those traditions while allowing flexibility based on personal preference, making it approachable for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Elbow macaroni
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Evaporated milk
Cheeses:
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Seasonings and Binders:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Egg (optional, for thicker baked texture)