Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Southern Macaroni and Cheese Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 30 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 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 comfort food classic, featuring elbow macaroni baked in a velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and a hint of smoked paprika. Topped with a crunchy crust of cheese and crushed Ritz crackers, this dish delivers the perfect combination of creamy and crispy textures, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

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)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping

  • 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente as per package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Add the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the sauce is smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using, mixing well.
  4. Combine with Pasta: Pour the cheese sauce over the drained macaroni in a large mixing bowl and toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  5. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the macaroni and cheese. Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese and, if desired, the crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy topping. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly for easier serving and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with 2% milk.
  • Smoked paprika is optional but adds a lovely smoky flavor that complements the cheese.
  • Using freshly grated cheddar cheese yields better melting and texture than pre-shredded cheese.
  • For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Crushed Ritz crackers add a delicious crunchy topping but can be omitted for a softer top.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

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