16 Best Ever Mac And Cheese Recipe Southern Living Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 11, 2024
When it comes to comfort food, mac and cheese is a classic favorite that always hits the spot. And in the South, where indulgent and hearty dishes reign supreme, it's no surprise that the best mac and cheese recipe can be found in Southern Living. Here, we'll share our tried and true method for making the perfect mac and cheese that will have your taste buds singing and your family begging for seconds.
Starting off with a classic, this southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe is the perfect addition to your beer can chicken. Made with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, this side dish pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the chicken. It's comfort food at its finest, and your family will be begging for seconds.
A slight variation on the previous recipe, this southern baked mac and cheese adds a touch of smoky flavor with the addition of bacon. The combination of the crispy bacon bits and gooey cheese sauce is a match made in heaven. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover bacon from your beer can chicken recipe.
3of 40
Southern Style Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Cooking Spray, Macaroni, Evaporated Milk, Whole Milk
If you're short on time or don't have access to a grill, this slow cooker mac and cheese recipe is the perfect alternative. It's just as creamy and delicious as the baked versions, but requires minimal effort. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you focus on grilling your beer can chicken.
This southern style macaroni and cheese recipe is a bit of a twist on the traditional version. Instead of using a cheese sauce, this recipe calls for chunks of cheese, giving it a more rustic and hearty feel. It's the perfect side dish for your beer can chicken, and the leftovers make for a great lunch the next day.
If you're a fan of breadcrumbs on your mac and cheese, then this recipe is for you. With a crispy breadcrumb topping and a creamy cheese sauce, this southern baked mac and cheese is sure to be a hit. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
This southern style macaroni and cheese recipe is a bit of a twist on the traditional version. Instead of using a cheese sauce, this recipe calls for chunks of cheese, giving it a more rustic and hearty feel. It's the perfect side dish for your beer can chicken, and the leftovers make for a great lunch the next day.
For a truly authentic southern mac and cheese experience, this recipe is a must-try. It's made with a combination of cheddar and Velveeta cheese for the ultimate creamy and cheesy texture. The addition of eggs and evaporated milk gives it a custard-like consistency that will have you coming back for seconds.
8of 40
Ultimate Southern Macaroni & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Evaporated Milk
If you're looking for a mac and cheese recipe that will blow your mind, then this is the one. With a combination of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and parmesan cheese, this mac and cheese is packed with flavor. And to take it to the next level, it's topped with a layer of crispy bacon and breadcrumbs. Trust us, you won't want to share this one.
This southern-style baked mac and cheese recipe is a bit different from the others on this list. It's made with a mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, giving it a tangy and creamy flavor. And the addition of green chilies adds a bit of heat to balance out the richness. It's a unique twist on a classic dish.
10of 40
Southern Style Mac & Cheese (Video Tutorial)
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Colby Jack Cheese, Extra Sharp Cheddar
If you're a visual learner, then this recipe is for you. This video tutorial shows you step by step how to make the creamiest and most delicious southern-style mac and cheese. And with the added bonus of a crispy breadcrumb topping, this recipe will become a staple in your household.
11of 40
Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Flour, Skim Milk, Nutmeg, Mustard, Salt
This creamy southern macaroni and cheese recipe is a bit different from the others on this list. Instead of using a traditional cheese sauce, this recipe calls for a mixture of cream and butter, giving it a rich and velvety texture. And the addition of dijon mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
12of 40
Southern Ghoulash
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Yellow Onion, Green Bell Pepper
If you're craving a hearty and comforting meal, then this southern goulash recipe is for you. Made with elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a variety of spices, this dish is full of flavor. And when served alongside your beer can chicken, it makes for a perfect southern-style feast.
13of 40
Southern Homemade Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Milk, Eggs
This homemade baked mac and cheese recipe is a southern favorite for a reason. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, it's incredibly creamy and flavorful. And when topped with a layer of buttery breadcrumbs, it's the ultimate comfort food.
14of 40
Southern Macaroni Pie
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Unsalted Butter, Cheese, Large Egg
If you're a fan of quiche or frittatas, then you'll love this southern macaroni pie recipe. It's a unique twist on mac and cheese that adds a bit of protein with the addition of eggs and milk. And the crispy breadcrumb crust takes it to the next level.
This southern mac and cheese recipe is a bit different from the others on this list. It's made with a combination of cheddar, Velveeta, and cream cheese for the ultimate creamy texture. And the addition of diced tomatoes and green chilies adds a bit of heat and tanginess to balance out the richness.
16of 40
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Milk, Salt
This baked mac and cheese recipe is a southern classic that is sure to become a family favorite. It's made with a mixture of cheddar and Colby Jack cheese for a perfectly cheesy and gooey texture. And when topped with buttery breadcrumbs, it's pure perfection.
17of 40
Southern Soul Food Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Noodles, Half And Half, Butter, Eggs, Cream
This soul food-inspired mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Made with a combination of cheddar and Velveeta cheese, it's incredibly creamy and flavorful. And the addition of evaporated milk gives it a velvety texture that is hard to resist.
18of 40
Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Butter, Milk
If you're looking for a simple and classic mac and cheese recipe, then this one is for you. Made with just a few ingredients, including cheddar cheese, milk, and butter, it's the perfect side dish for your beer can chicken. And the best part? It can be on the table in 30 minutes.
19of 40
Southern Homestyle Mac And Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Noodles, Egg, Butter, Flour, Dried Mustard
This homestyle mac and cheese recipe is a southern staple that you'll want to make over and over again. Made with a combination of sharp cheddar and Colby Jack cheese, it's incredibly cheesy and flavorful. And the addition of hot sauce gives it a slight kick that sets it apart from other mac and cheese recipes.
20of 40
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheese, Butter, Milk, Paprika, Mustard
For a homemade version of a classic southern dish, this mac and cheese recipe is a must-try. It's made with a combination of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta cheese for the ultimate creamy and cheesy texture. And when topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping, it's a match made in heaven.
There you have it, 20 mouth-watering beer can chicken recipes to add to your cooking repertoire. Whether you prefer a classic mac and cheese or a unique twist on the traditional dish, there's something for everyone on this list. So fire up the grill, crack open a cold beer, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family.
If you're looking for a delicious and comforting meal that will transport you straight to the South, look no further than Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese. This classic dish features tender macaroni noodles smothered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, then baked to perfection. It's the ultimate comfort food that will have your taste buds singing.
This Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is a tried and true favorite for many families. It's a simple and straightforward dish that uses basic ingredients, but the end result is pure comfort in a bowl. The key to this recipe is using a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for the perfect balance of flavors.
23of 40
Southern Style Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Cooking Spray, Macaroni, Evaporated Milk, Whole Milk
For those busy days when you don't have time to stand over the stove, this Southern Style Slow Cooker Mac & Cheese is the perfect solution. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. The end result is a creamy and indulgent mac and cheese that will have you coming back for seconds.
For a true taste of the South, this Southern Style Macaroni and Cheese is a must-try. It's a classic recipe that has been passed down for generations and is loved by all. The secret to this recipe is the addition of a little bit of mustard and Worcestershire sauce, which adds a tangy and unique flavor to the dish.
For a twist on the traditional Southern mac and cheese, try this Southern Baked Macaroni & Cheese recipe. It's loaded with bacon and jalapenos for a little kick, making it perfect for those who love a little heat. The addition of cream cheese also gives this dish a creamy and rich texture that will have you going back for more.
This Southern Style Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a true labor of love. It takes a little bit of time and effort to make, but the end result is well worth it. The key to this recipe is the homemade cheese sauce, which is made with a combination of sharp cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan cheese for a complex and delicious flavor.
For a taste of nostalgia, try this Traditional Southern Macaroni and Cheese recipe. It's a simple and classic dish that uses basic ingredients, but it's the method and technique that make it stand out. The key to this recipe is the addition of evaporated milk, which gives the cheese sauce a creamy and velvety texture.
28of 40
Ultimate Southern Macaroni & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Evaporated Milk
If you want to take your mac and cheese to the next level, try this Ultimate Southern Macaroni & Cheese recipe. It's loaded with all the classic ingredients like cheddar cheese, butter, and milk, but the addition of sour cream and mayonnaise gives this dish an extra level of creaminess and tanginess.
This Southern-Style Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a true crowd-pleaser. It's a no-fail recipe that is perfect for potlucks and gatherings. The key to this recipe is the addition of Velveeta cheese, which gives the dish a smooth and velvety texture. It's a true comfort food that will have you coming back for seconds.
30of 40
Southern Style Mac & Cheese (Video Tutorial)
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Colby Jack Cheese, Extra Sharp Cheddar
If you're a visual learner, this Southern Style Mac & Cheese recipe is perfect for you. This video tutorial will guide you step by step through the process of making the perfect mac and cheese. The end result is a creamy and cheesy dish that will make you feel like a Southern cooking pro.
31of 40
Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Flour, Skim Milk, Nutmeg, Mustard, Salt
If you're a fan of creamy and cheesy mac and cheese, this Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a must-try. It's loaded with three different types of cheese and is baked to golden perfection. The addition of garlic powder and paprika gives this dish a little extra flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
32of 40
Southern Ghoulash
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Yellow Onion, Green Bell Pepper
This Southern Ghoulash recipe is a twist on the classic mac and cheese, but it's equally delicious and comforting. It features ground beef, macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce that is loaded with flavor. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a family-friendly dinner.
33of 40
Southern Homemade Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Milk, Eggs
This Southern Homemade Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is the perfect side dish for any meal. It's a simple and straightforward recipe that uses basic ingredients, but the end result is a rich and creamy mac and cheese that will have your family begging for more. The key to this recipe is using a combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheese for a depth of flavor.
34of 40
Southern Macaroni Pie
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Unsalted Butter, Cheese, Large Egg
This Southern Macaroni Pie recipe is a unique twist on the classic mac and cheese. It's essentially a crustless quiche made with macaroni noodles, cheese, and eggs. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for brunch or a light dinner.
This Southern Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a true classic that will never go out of style. It's a simple and straightforward recipe that uses basic ingredients, but the end result is pure comfort in a bowl. The key to this recipe is using a combination of sharp cheddar and Velveeta cheese for a gooey and cheesy texture.
36of 40
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Milk, Salt
This Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is perfect for those who love a little bit of crunch on top of their mac and cheese. It's a classic recipe that is made with a homemade cheese sauce and topped with buttery breadcrumbs. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures makes this dish a true winner.
37of 40
Southern Soul Food Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Noodles, Half And Half, Butter, Eggs, Cream
If you want to take your mac and cheese to the next level, try this Southern Soul Food Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe. It's a soulful and comforting dish that is loaded with flavor. The key to this recipe is using a combination of sharp cheddar and Colby Jack cheese for a complex and delicious flavor.
38of 40
Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Butter, Milk
This classic Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a staple in many Southern households. It's a simple and straightforward dish that uses basic ingredients, but it's the method and technique that make it stand out. The key to this recipe is cooking the macaroni in milk, which gives the dish a rich and creamy texture.
39of 40
Southern Homestyle Mac And Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Noodles, Egg, Butter, Flour, Dried Mustard
If you want to make a mac and cheese that tastes just like Grandma used to make, try this Southern Homestyle Mac and Cheese recipe. It's a true Southern comfort food that is loaded with cheese and baked to golden perfection. The key to this recipe is using a combination of sharp cheddar and American cheese for a perfect balance of flavors.
40of 40
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheese, Butter, Milk, Paprika, Mustard
This Homemade Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a true labor of love. It takes a little bit of time and effort to make, but the end result is well worth it. The key to this recipe is using a combination of cheddar, Gouda, and fontina cheese for a rich and creamy sauce that will have you coming back for seconds.
The Secret to a Perfect Southern Mac and Cheese
While there are countless variations of mac and cheese recipes out there, the key to a truly exceptional dish lies in the cheese. In the South, we know that the creamier and cheesier, the better. That's why our recipe calls for a combination of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and parmesan to create a rich and flavorful sauce that will have you wanting more.
The Importance of High-Quality Cheese
When it comes to mac and cheese, the cheese itself is the star of the show. That's why it's crucial to use high-quality cheese that will melt beautifully and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. In this recipe, we recommend using aged sharp cheddar for its tangy and robust flavor, smoked gouda for its smoky and nutty notes, and parmesan for its sharp and salty taste. These three cheeses combined create a complex and irresistible flavor profile that will elevate your mac and cheese to a whole new level.
Don't Skimp on the Creaminess
Another essential element of a perfect mac and cheese is the creaminess of the sauce. To achieve this, our recipe calls for a combination of milk, heavy cream, and butter. The milk provides a smooth base for the sauce, while the heavy cream adds richness and the butter adds a velvety texture. Together, these ingredients create a luscious and velvety sauce that will coat every noodle with deliciousness.
The Finishing Touch: Breadcrumbs and Baking
To add a crunchy and flavorful topping to your mac and cheese, we recommend topping it with panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of melted butter. The breadcrumbs will toast in the oven, creating a crispy and golden crust, while the parmesan and butter add even more flavor. And after a quick bake in the oven, your mac and cheese will be ready to serve and enjoy.
So the next time you're craving some comfort food, try our best ever mac and cheese recipe from Southern Living. With its creamy and cheesy sauce, crispy topping, and irresistible flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite that will have you coming back for seconds and thirds.