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Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 85 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Description

This Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole is a rich and creamy classic comfort food made with a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses baked to bubbly perfection with a crunchy cracker topping. Ideal for a hearty family meal, this recipe combines tender elbow macaroni in a velvety homemade cheese sauce seasoned with smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor and baked until golden and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Topping

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth and lump-free. Continue cooking and whisking for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
  4. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using, to add a hint of smokiness.
  5. Combine with Pasta: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked elbow macaroni and mix thoroughly to coat all the noodles evenly. Transfer this cheesy pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  6. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then add the grated Parmesan cheese and, if desired, the crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
  7. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set slightly for easier slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
  • Smoked paprika is optional but adds a lovely smoky depth.
  • Crushed Ritz crackers provide a classic crunchy topping, but breadcrumbs or panko can be substituted.
  • You can prepare this casserole a day ahead and refrigerate; just bake it slightly longer if chilled.
  • For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

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Find it online: https://speedydinnerrecipes.com/southern-macaroni-and-cheese-casserole-recipe/