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Macaroni and cheese is more than just a dish; it's a beloved staple that evokes images of childhood dinners, family gatherings, and cozy nights in. This creamy, cheesy delight has won hearts across generations and continues to be a favorite comfort food for many. While traditional mac and cheese is a timeless classic, the Southern Comfort Mac and Cheese introduces an exciting twist that elevates this beloved dish to new heights. Infused with rich flavors and a creamy texture, it's the perfect centerpiece for gatherings and family dinners alike.

Southern-Style Macaroni and Cheese

Experience a delicious twist on a beloved classic with Southern Comfort Mac and Cheese. This creamy dish combines sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and cream cheese for a rich, velvety sauce that envelops al dente elbow macaroni. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it adds texture and crunch, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights. Discover the unique ingredients and step-by-step instructions in this article to impress your guests with this comforting dish.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb elbow macaroni

4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

4 cups whole milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 6-8 minutes). Once cooked, drain well and set aside.

      Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.

        Incorporate the Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

          Melt the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Begin adding the softened cream cheese, followed by the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

            Season the Sauce: Enhance the flavor of your cheese sauce by adding the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste, stirring well to combine all the flavors.

              Combine Pasta and Sauce: Carefully add the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, using a spatula or wooden spoon to mix thoroughly until every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the rich cheese sauce.

                Prepare for Baking: Pour the creamy mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, using a spatula to smooth out the top evenly.

                  Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, melt an additional tablespoon of butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese to create a deliciously crispy topping.

                    Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbling around the edges.

                      Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. For a fresh touch, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley before serving.

                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

                          - Presentation Tips: Serve the mac and cheese in individual bowls or straight from the baking dish, ensuring to scoop out some of the crispy topping with each serving. A sprinkle of extra parsley can enhance the dish's vibrant look!