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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

5 from 1 vote
Savor the richness of Southern Baked Mac and Cheese, a classic soul food favorite that embodies comfort in every bite. This recipe is a heartfelt tribute to Southern culinary traditions, offering a creamy and cheesy delight that's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • Elbow Macaroni: 500g 16 oz
  • Chicken Broth: 6 cups
  • Shredded Sharp Cheddar: 225g 8 oz
  • Shredded Colby Jack: 225g 8 oz
  • Shredded Mozzarella part-skim: 225g (8 oz)
  • Cubed American Cheese: 225g 8 oz
  • Room Temperature Cream Cheese: 125g 4 oz
  • Half and Half Cream: 250ml 1 cup
  • Heavy Cream: 250ml 1 cup
  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
  • Smoked Paprika: 4g 1/2 tsp
  • Garlic Powder: 3g 1-2 tsp
  • Onion Powder: 3g 1 tsp
  • Mustard Powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Eggs large: 2

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and butter a baking dish (either 8x11 or 9x13 inches).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling chicken broth until slightly less than al dente. Drain well.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the half and half, heavy cream, half of each cheese (cheddar and Colby Jack), and all of the mozzarella, American, and cream cheeses.
  4. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting to taste.
  5. Stir in the undercooked macaroni and eggs, ensuring even distribution.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, topping with the remaining cheddar and Colby Jack.
  7. Bake for 35 minutes, watching for a bubbly and golden-brown cheese crust.
  8. Allow to cool briefly before serving, ensuring optimal creaminess.

Notes

  • Substitute half and half with evaporated milk if needed.
  • Explore different cheese combinations, avoiding hard cheeses for best melting quality.
  • For extra creaminess, add more cream cheese.

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