17 Southern Mac And Cheese Recipe Allrecipes Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!

The Origins of Southern Mac and Cheese

The origins of mac and cheese can be traced back to Italy, where it was known as "maccheroni al formaggio." However, it wasn't until the 18th century that it made its way to America, thanks to Thomas Jefferson. He discovered the dish while traveling in France and brought it back to the United States, where it quickly became a favorite among the elite.

However, it wasn't until the 20th century that mac and cheese became a staple in southern households. During the Great Depression, food was scarce, and families had to get creative with their meals. Mac and cheese became a budget-friendly and filling option, and soon, it became a beloved comfort food in the South.

The Secret to a Perfect Southern Mac and Cheese

Nowadays, there are countless variations of southern mac and cheese, from spicy to bacon-filled. But the key to a perfect southern mac and cheese lies in the cheese. Traditional southern mac and cheese calls for a combination of sharp cheddar and colby cheese. These two types of cheese create a perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess that will have you going back for seconds.

Another crucial ingredient is the bechamel sauce, which is a simple white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. This sauce adds a velvety texture to the mac and cheese and keeps it from becoming dry.

Putting it All Together

Now that we know the history and secret to a perfect southern mac and cheese, let's take a look at a classic recipe that will have your taste buds singing.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups colby cheese, shredded
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the flour and whisk until combined.
3. Slowly add in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
5. Remove the sauce from the heat and add in the shredded cheddar and colby cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy your delicious southern mac and cheese!

With this classic southern mac and cheese recipe, you can recreate the comforting flavors of the South in your own kitchen. Serve it as a side dish or make it the star of your next potluck or family gathering. Either way, your taste buds will thank you.