Homemade Southern-Style Creamy Mac & Cheese

Introduction to Homemade Mac N cheese

Southern-style creamy mac & cheese is a timeless comfort food that combines delicious cheeses, rich creaminess, and a touch of Southern flair. Perfect for family gatherings and holiday feasts, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that's bound to make everyone feel at home. With a blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, and Velveeta cheese, each spoonful bursts with flavor!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients You'll Need

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 1 cup shredded Colby cheese

• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 3 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• 2 large eggs (beaten)

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup shredded cheese (for topping)

Steps to Make Homemade Mac N Cheese

1. Cook the pasta:
   Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside—don’t overcook since it’ll bake later.

2. Make the roux:
   In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

3. Add milk and cream:
   Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.

4. Add cheeses:
   Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, and Velveeta. Mix until melted and creamy.

5. Season the sauce:
   Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well to combine.

6. Mix eggs and sour cream:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and sour cream. Stir this mixture into the cheese sauce—this makes it extra rich and creamy.

7. Combine pasta and sauce:
   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated.

8. Bake it:
   Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

9. Serve and enjoy!
   Let it rest for a few minutes, then dig in. Creamy, cheesy, and full of southern comfort—just how mac & cheese should be.

TIPS: Don’t skip the roux.
Start with butter and flour before adding milk. This thickens your sauce and keeps it from turning grainy.

Shred your own cheese.
Pre-shredded cheese has a coating that keeps it from melting smooth. Freshly shredded melts like a dream.

Add a splash of heavy cream.
It makes the sauce extra silky and rich—trust me, it’s worth it.

Happy Cooking !