The Best Baked Southern Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

There’s nothing quite like baked Southern macaroni and cheese—rich, creamy, and loaded with gooey cheese, all baked to golden perfection. In the South, mac and cheese isn’t just a side dish—it’s a tradition, a comfort food staple, and often the star of Sunday supper or holiday gatherings.

This recipe is extra special because it’s (my husband’s) Aunt Carol’s famous Southern mac and cheese—a dish that has been passed down in our family for generations. It’s also featured in my new cookbook, The Heirloomed Kitchen, where I’ve gathered the most cherished, time-honored family recipes.

If you’re looking for an authentic Southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe, you’re in the right place. This classic, no-boil mac and cheese is made with real ingredients, plenty of cheese, and a buttery, crispy topping that gives it that irresistible homemade touch.

What Makes Southern Mac and Cheese Different?

Unlike stovetop mac and cheese, Southern baked mac and cheese is all about the oven-baked goodness. It’s rich, custard-like, and filled with layers of melty cheese. The secret? A combination of eggs and milk that helps it bake into a firm, sliceable casserole—just like grandma used to make!

Ingredients for Baked Southern Macaroni and Cheese

(Recipe stays the same as your original!)

• Macaroni – The classic choice for holding onto all that creamy cheese, our favorite to use is jumbo elbow pasta which can be hard to find
• Cheddar cheese – A sharp, melty cheese is key.
• Milk & heavy cream – For the creamiest texture.
• Eggs – Help create that signature custard-like texture.
• Butter – Because everything’s better with butter!
• Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for flavor which really goes the extra mile flavor wise in this recipe.

How to Make the Best Baked Southern Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 2 minutes, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

Add the salt, black pepper, red pepper, and garlic powder, stirring to combine.

Step 3: Add the Dairy & Melt the Cheese

Slowly whisk in the half-and-half and milk, continuing to stir constantly. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened.

Stir in half of the sharp cheddar cheese, followed by the extra-sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine & Assemble

Remove the cheese sauce from heat and stir in the cooked macaroni, ensuring every piece is well-coated.

Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbling

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving for the perfect creamy consistency.

Tips for the Best Southern Mac and Cheese

• Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has additives that prevent melting.
• Add a crispy topping – Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top for a crispy crust, if you like it that way.

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Southern Mac and Cheese

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Description

This baked southern mac n cheese is so creamy and delicious. This is sure to be a hit among the whole family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups half-and-half (fat-free)
• 2 cups milk
• 2 (8oz) block extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (8oz) block extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (16oz) pkg elbow macaroni, cooked

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in large skillet over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in flour until mixture is smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, for 2 minutes.
2. Stir in salt, black pepper, red pepper and garlic powder.
3. Gradually whisk in half-and-half and milk; cook, whisking constantly, for 8-10 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in half of sharp cheddar cheese. Stir in the extra-sharp cheddar cheese until mixture is smooth.
5. Remove from heat and combine pasta and cheese mixture.
6. Pour mixture into greased 13×9 baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining sharp cheddar cheese. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes.

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Keywords: southern mac and cheese, baked Mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese recipe, Mac and cheese homemade

Serving Suggestions

Pair this baked Southern mac and cheese with:
– BBQ ribs or smoked brisket
– Fried chicken or crispy pork chops
– Collard greens or cornbread

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• Can You Make It Ahead of Time?
• Yes! Assemble your mac and cheese the night before, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 30 minutes beforehand, then bake as usual.

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• More Southern Comfort Recipes
• Classic Southern Cornbread
• Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits
• Homemade Pimento Cheese

• Try This Baked Southern Macaroni and Cheese Recipe Today!
• If you love classic Southern comfort food, this baked mac and cheese is a must-try. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of homemade flavor—perfect for Sunday dinner, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
• Find this recipe and more in my cookbook, The Heirloomed Kitchen, available now!
• Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest for later!

heirloomed is a lifestyle brand with a mission of “keeping heirlooms around for another generation.” Our blog features stories about my favorite made-from-scratch recipes, creating traditions with your family, farmhouse home decor, effortless entertaining by mixing new and vintage pieces, tips on gardening creating a timeless capsule wardrobe, and small town + historic travel. Our product designs feature a collection of “goods inspired by the past, for generations to enjoy” with an array of aprons, table linens, hand-poured candles and keepsake gifts. Learn more at www.heirloomedcollection.com.