Southern Mac & Cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

2. 2

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 1 lb elbow macaroni for 1 minute less than package directions (al dente). Drain and set aside.

3. 3

   In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter.

4. 4

   Whisk in 1/4 cup flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to make a roux.

5. 5

   Gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Whisk continuously to prevent lumps.

6. 6

   Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

7. 7

   Reduce heat to low. Add 12 oz of the shredded cheddar, all of the Colby jack, and the cream cheese cubes. Stir until completely melted and smooth.

8. 8

   Season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika.

9. 9

   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

10. 10

    Pour half the mac and cheese into the baking dish. Top with 4 oz of the remaining cheddar.

11. 11

    Add the rest of the mac and cheese and top with the final 4 oz of cheddar.

12. 12

    Mix 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle over the top.

13. 13

    Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly, golden on top, and the edges are crispy.

14. 14

    Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.