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The Ultimate Creamy & Cheesy Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese (Classic Soul Food Style)

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this classic Southern baked macaroni and cheese. This recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy, and unforgettable soul food experience.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter plus more for greasing
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 4 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 4 ounces Colby cheese shredded
  • 4 ounces Gruyère cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese for topping

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain well.
  3. Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in whole milk until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in evaporated milk, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.
  6. Temper eggs with hot cheese sauce. Pour back into saucepan, whisking constantly.
  7. Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, and Gruyère cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.
  8. Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce and stir gently.
  9. Pour into baking dish. Sprinkle extra sharp cheddar cheese on top.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
  11. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.