Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this baked mac and cheese will become a favorite.
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Only 3 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No boiling required. The pasta cooks right in the oven.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Creamy and cheesy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves mac and cheese.
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Budget-friendly. Pasta, milk, and cheese are inexpensive.
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Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners.
Ingredients
Servings: 6 to 8
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16 oz (1 pound) uncooked elbow macaroni
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6 cups whole milk
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6 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (about 1 1/2 pounds)
Ingredient Notes
Elbow macaroni: Use uncooked elbow macaroni.
Whole milk: Creates the creamy sauce.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Provides bold, tangy flavor. Divide into 4 cups and 2 cups.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass casserole dish.
Step 2: Layer the Pasta and Cheese
Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni evenly into the bottom of the glass casserole dish. Sprinkle 4 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the dry macaroni.
Step 3: Add the Milk
Slowly pour the whole milk over the macaroni and cheese, making sure all the pasta is moistened. Gently press down with a spoon to help the milk seep through.
Step 4: Stir Gently
Give everything a very gentle stir in the dish, just enough to loosely combine the milk, pasta, and cheese.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake for 45 minutes, until the macaroni is mostly tender and the mixture is hot and bubbling.
Step 6: Stir and Top
Carefully remove the foil. Stir the macaroni gently from the bottom and smooth it out again. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Finish Baking
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted and golden.
Step 8: Broil (Optional)
For an extra-crispy top, switch the oven to broil for 1 to 3 minutes at the very end.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Baked Mac and Cheese
This creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Fried Chicken: A classic Southern pairing.
With Pulled Pork: Perfect for barbecues.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Different Pasta: Use shells or cavatappi.
Make It with Different Cheese: Use Monterey Jack or Gouda.
Make It with Breadcrumbs: Add a breadcrumb topping.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Garlic: Add garlic powder.
Make It with Paprika: Add smoked paprika.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not cook the pasta before baking. It cooks in the milk.
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam.
Stir gently halfway through. This ensures even cooking.
Let the mac and cheese rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Shells or cavatappi can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Monterey Jack or Gouda can be used.
Can I use a different milk?
Yes. Half-and-half can be used for extra richness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my mac and cheese dry?
There was not enough milk. Add more next time.
Why is my mac and cheese runny?
It did not rest long enough. Let it set.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 8 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
The Beauty of Southern Mac and Cheese
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, creamy, cheesy mac and cheese that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This Southern baked mac and cheese is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pasta in your pantry. Keep milk and cheese in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes covered, plus 20 to 25 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 to 8 servings