Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with the Best Southern Baked Mac and Cheese. This creamy, cheesy delight features a luxurious blend of extra-sharp cheddar and mascarpone, creating a rich texture that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion, this recipe adds a flavorful twist with Cajun seasoning and nutmeg. Versatile enough to serve as a main course or side dish, this baked mac and cheese serves up to 10 people, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. With simple preparation steps and easily sourced ingredients, you’ll find yourself mastering this classic dish in no time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 can evaporated milk (13 oz)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz extra-sharp white cheddar cheese
- 12 oz mild cheddar cheese
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp dry mustard powder
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and stir in butter.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mascarpone and evaporated milk until smooth; add whole milk and seasonings.
- Mix in macaroni and half of the shredded cheeses; stir well.
- Taste mixture for seasoning adjustments; add beaten egg.
- Layer macaroni mixture in a casserole dish with remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling; broil for an additional 2–3 minutes if desired.
- Let cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg