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Southern macaroni and cheese 2026 02 17 143311 819x1024

Southern Macaroni and Cheese

A creamy and cheesy dish that brings the classic taste of the South, perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 4 cups elbow macaroni noodles (uncooked)

Cheese

  • 8 oz Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
  • 8 oz Sharp Cheddar cheese (shredded)

Sauce

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions
 

Cooking the Pasta

  • Cook 4 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni noodles according to package directions. Drain with a colander and set aside.

Making the Sauce

  • In the pot that you cooked the elbow macaroni noodles, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
  • Add the flour to the melted butter and stir until combined. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add milk and salt. Continue cooking the mixture on low-medium heat, stirring regularly until it thickens and bubbles slightly.
  • Stir continuously as it thickens, then add in the cheese. Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted.

Combining

  • Add the cooked macaroni noodles to the cheese sauce and stir to coat all the noodles.
  • Serve as a side dish or a main dish.

Notes

For added flavor, sprinkle some extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
Keyword Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, Macaroni and Cheese