19 Southern Living Creamy Macaroni Cheese Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Apr 18, 2024
Southern living is all about comfort, warmth, and delicious home-cooked meals. And what better comfort food than a rich and creamy macaroni and cheese dish? The southern living creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is a classic that has been passed down for generations. It's easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So, let's dive into the details of this mouth-watering recipe and discover the secret to making the perfect southern mac and cheese.
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Vegetable Oil, Macaroni, Milk, Unsalted
One of the classic comfort foods, mac and cheese is a staple dish in many households. This creamy and cheesy dish is loved by people of all ages and can be made in various ways. Here are 20 different mac and cheese recipes that will have you and your family coming back for more.
2of 20
Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Flour, Skim Milk, Nutmeg, Mustard, Salt
This southern-style mac and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Made with a combination of sharp cheddar and Velveeta cheese, this dish is creamy and full of flavor. The addition of spices like cayenne pepper and mustard powder gives it a little kick, making it perfect for those who like a bit of heat in their mac and cheese.
3of 20
Creamy Macaroni & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Velveeta R, Whole Milk, Flour, Margarine, Macaroni
For a classic and simple mac and cheese recipe, try this creamy macaroni and cheese. Made with a roux-based cheese sauce, this dish is rich and cheesy. You can use any type of cheese you like, but cheddar and Gruyere work best for this recipe. It's the perfect side dish for any meal, or you can enjoy it as a main dish with a side salad.
4of 20
Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheeses, Shredded Parmesan, Velveeta, Milk
Busy weeknights call for easy and convenient meals. This creamy crock pot mac and cheese is the perfect solution. It only takes 10 minutes to prep and the slow cooker does the rest of the work. The result is a creamy and cheesy mac and cheese that will have you reaching for seconds.
5of 20
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheese, Butter, Milk, Paprika, Mustard
Nothing beats a homemade mac and cheese, and this recipe is a winner. Made with a combination of cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is rich and flavorful. The addition of crispy bacon on top adds a nice crunch to the creamy pasta. It's a perfect dish for a cozy night in.
6of 20
Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Egg, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
This mac and cheese recipe is simple yet delicious. Made with only 5 ingredients, it's a quick and easy dish to make. The secret ingredient that sets this dish apart is the addition of cream cheese. It gives the dish a rich and creamy texture that will have you going back for more.
7of 20
Perfect Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
If you're looking for the perfect mac and cheese recipe, look no further. This creamy macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleaser and will have everyone asking for the recipe. Made with a combination of cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese, it's a cheesy and flavorful dish that will become a family favorite.
8of 20
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, Flour, Milk, Light Cream, Mustard
This mac and cheese casserole is a great dish to make for a potluck or family gathering. It's made with a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture. The combination of textures makes this dish a winner.
9of 20
Insanely Cheesy And Creamy Mac & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese
If you're a cheese lover, this mac and cheese recipe is for you. Made with a combination of 5 different cheeses, this dish is insanely cheesy and creamy. The addition of heavy cream gives it an extra creamy texture, making it a decadent and indulgent meal.
10of 20
Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Milk
This stovetop mac and cheese recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal. It only takes 20 minutes to make and is made with simple ingredients like milk, butter, and cheese. The result is a creamy and cheesy dish that will satisfy your mac and cheese cravings.
11of 20
Three Cheese Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Spices
This three cheese mac and cheese recipe is a twist on the classic dish. Made with a combination of cheddar, Gruyere, and blue cheese, it's a cheesy and flavorful dish. The addition of crispy prosciutto adds a salty and savory element to this creamy mac and cheese.
12of 20
Easy Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Macaroni Pasta, Fine Salt, Smoked Bacon, Large
If you're looking for a mac and cheese recipe with a twist, try this creamy chicken pasta bake. It's made with rotini pasta, chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce. The addition of diced tomatoes and green chilies gives it a little kick, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.
13of 20
Uncooked Macaroni Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Milk, Salt, Dry Mustard, Black Pepper, Garlic
This crock pot mac and cheese recipe is perfect for those busy days when you don't have time to cook. It's made with uncooked macaroni, which saves you the step of boiling the pasta. The result is a creamy and cheesy mac and cheese that requires minimal effort.
14of 20
Creamy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Low Fat Milk
This homemade mac and cheese recipe is a classic dish that will never go out of style. Made with a combination of cheddar and Gouda cheese, it's rich and creamy. The addition of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce gives it a tangy and savory flavor that will have you going back for more.
15of 20
Creamy Easy Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Reduced Fat Sour Cream, Low Fat Small Curd
This easy mac and cheese recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Made with only 7 ingredients, it's a simple yet delicious dish. The addition of cream cheese adds a creamy and rich texture to this cheesy pasta dish.
16of 20
French Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Garlic, Butter, Creme Fraiche, Gruyere
If you're looking for a gourmet mac and cheese recipe, try this French macaroni and cheese. Made with Gruyere and Parmesan cheese, it's a cheesy and flavorful dish. The addition of Dijon mustard and white wine gives it a French twist and takes this dish to the next level.
17of 20
The Best Mac and Cheese (with healthy variations) +...
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Egg, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
This mac and cheese recipe is not only delicious but also has healthy variations. Made with whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt, it's a healthier version of the classic dish. The addition of broccoli and cauliflower makes it a complete and nutritious meal.
This southern-style baked mac and cheese is a must-try for cheese lovers. It's made with a combination of cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan cheese, and has a crispy breadcrumb topping. The result is a creamy and cheesy dish with a crunchy texture that will have you going back for seconds.
This southern-style baked mac and cheese is a classic dish that is loved by many. Made with a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it's a crowd-pleaser. The addition of smoked paprika gives it a smoky and savory flavor that sets it apart from other mac and cheese recipes.
20of 20
Oven Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Velveeta R Cheese, Butter, Milk, Cream, Salt, Pepper
This oven-baked mac and cheese recipe is perfect for those days when you want a hearty and comforting meal. Made with a combination of cheddar and Gouda cheese, it's creamy and flavorful. The addition of bacon and caramelized onions adds a savory and salty element to this dish.
The Secret to Delicious Mac and Cheese
The Cheese
The key to any good mac and cheese recipe is the cheese. In this recipe, we use a combination of sharp cheddar and gruyere cheese. The sharp cheddar adds a tangy and sharp flavor while the gruyere brings a nutty and creamy taste. Be sure to use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother and more flavorful sauce.
The Creamy Sauce
To achieve the perfect creamy and velvety texture, we use a combination of butter, flour, and whole milk. The butter adds richness and depth of flavor, while the flour helps to thicken the sauce. Whole milk is essential for creating a smooth and creamy sauce, so don't skimp on the fat content.
The Pasta
Any type of pasta can be used for this recipe, but we recommend elbow macaroni. The small size and tube-like shape allow the cheese sauce to cling to every nook and cranny, ensuring a delicious bite every time.
The Toppings
While this mac and cheese is delicious on its own, adding a breadcrumb topping takes it to the next level. We use a combination of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder for a crunchy and flavorful topping. You can also add other toppings such as crumbled bacon or diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make Southern Living Creamy Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from heat and stir in the grated sharp cheddar and gruyere cheese until melted and fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until all the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the breadcrumb topping.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Bake the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy the deliciousness of this southern living creamy macaroni and cheese recipe.
Now that you know the secrets to making the perfect mac and cheese, impress your friends and family with this mouth-watering dish at your next gathering. Trust us, they will be begging for the recipe.