Why You’ll Love this Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
This Southern Macaroni and Cheese isn’t just another recipe—it’s comfort in a casserole dish. I’m talking about that perfect balance of creamy and cheesy goodness that makes you close your eyes with each bite. The extra-sharp cheddar brings a bold flavor that regular mac and cheese just can’t match, while the evaporated milk creates that silky texture we all crave.
The simplicity. No fancy cheese sauce or complicated techniques, just straightforward ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. The pinch of sugar? That’s the secret that enhances the natural sweetness of the cheese. And that golden, slightly crispy top layer? Pure heaven. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for Sunday dinner.
What Ingredients are in Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese?
Southern macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to any dinner table. This creamy, cheesy dish has been a staple at family gatherings and holiday meals across the South for generations. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients that transform into something truly magical when baked to golden perfection.
- 8 ounces macaroni, cooked
- 1½ cups extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided into 1 cup and ½ cup)
- 1 (6 ounce) can evaporated milk
- ½ cup margarine
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch sugar
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters. The extra-sharp cheddar gives this dish its distinctive flavor, so it’s worth spending a little more on good cheese if you can. Many Southern cooks insist on using evaporated milk rather than regular milk because it creates that signature creamy texture without making the dish soupy. And while some modern recipes might swap in butter, the traditional margarine adds a certain nostalgic flavor that’s hard to beat. Can you taste the memories forming already?
How to Make this Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
Creating this iconic Southern dish is wonderfully straightforward, though the results are anything but simple in flavor. Begin by cooking 8 ounces of macaroni according to package directions, then drain it well. While the pasta is still hot, add 1/2 cup of margarine and 1 cup of extra-sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until they melt into the warm macaroni. This immediate addition of fats helps prevent the pasta from sticking together while creating that signature creamy base we’re looking for.
Next comes the essential moisture element—pour in one 6-ounce can of evaporated milk (not to be confused with sweetened condensed milk) and add 1 beaten egg, which will help bind everything together and create that custard-like texture that makes Southern mac and cheese so distinctive. A pinch of salt and sugar might seem insignificant, but they’re the secret to balancing the sharp cheese flavor.
After thoroughly combining these ingredients, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese across the top. For the best results, prepare this dish using a quality stainless steel cookware that distributes heat evenly. This creates that irresistible golden crust that makes people go back for seconds. Pop it into a preheated 400-degree oven for 30 minutes, and the transformation happens—the edges get slightly crispy while the interior stays creamy and luscious.
Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese Substitutions and Variations
While you’ve mastered the classic version of this beloved comfort food, the beauty of Southern macaroni and cheese lies in its adaptability. I’m a firm believer that recipes are merely suggestions—brilliant starting points for your culinary creativity.
Can’t find extra-sharp cheddar? Try a combination of mild cheddar and Gruyère for complexity. Swap the margarine for butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Lactose-sensitive? Use lactose-free milk and aged cheeses, which contain less lactose.
For a spicy kick, fold in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne. Craving protein? Bacon bits or diced ham transform this side into a hearty main. And those breadcrumbs collecting dust in your pantry? Mix with melted butter and sprinkle on top for an irresistible crunch.
What to Serve with Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
So you’ve prepared this decadent, cheesy masterpiece—now what? This comforting classic deserves perfect companions that balance its rich, creamy nature. I always think about contrasting flavors and textures when planning my menu.
For proteins, consider crispy fried chicken, smoky pulled pork, or tangy BBQ ribs—all southern traditions that complement mac and cheese beautifully. Vegetables help cut through the richness; collard greens, green beans with bacon, or a crisp coleslaw add freshness and balance.
Need something lighter? A simple side salad with vinaigrette works wonders. Can’t forget cornbread or buttermilk biscuits for sopping up that extra cheese sauce, because letting any go to waste would be a culinary crime. Remember, the best pairings create a meal where every bite feels like home.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Southern mac and cheese isn’t just a side dish—it’s a tradition that brings people together around the table. There’s something magical about that first bite of tender pasta wrapped in velvety cheese sauce, with that perfect golden crust on top. Pure comfort in every forkful.
I’m convinced that the secret lies in those simple ingredients—the evaporated milk for creaminess, that extra-sharp cheddar for depth, and the pinch of sugar that balances everything just right. You know a recipe has stood the test of time when it requires so little yet delivers so much.
Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or holiday gathering, this mac and cheese recipe deserves its place of honor. No fancy techniques needed, just good, honest cooking that speaks to the soul.