Southern Macaroni and Cheese (Stovetop) – Creamy

Name: Southern Macaroni and Cheese (Stovetop) – Creamy & Cheesy Comfort Food!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: AMERICAN
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice); 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water); 1 tablespoon butter (to prevent sticking); 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter; ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour; 2 cups (480ml) whole milk; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or evaporated milk for a Southern twist); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor); ½ teaspoon mustard powder (enhances cheese flavor); 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp); 1 cup shredded Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Posted on March 4, 2025 · [Elisa]

macaroni and cheese recipe in a white bowl

Main Dishes

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This Southern Macaroni is ultra-creamy, rich, and packed with cheesy goodness. Unlike baked mac and cheese, this stovetop version comes together quickly while still delivering that classic Southern flavor.

Made with real cheese, butter, and a luscious homemade cheese sauce, this dish is perfect as a side for family dinners, BBQs, holidays, or a quick comfort food fix!

Ingredients for Southern Stovetop Mac and Cheese

the Pasta:

1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
1 tablespoon butter (to prevent sticking)

the Creamy Cheese Sauce:

4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
2 cups (480ml) whole milk
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or evaporated milk for a Southern twist)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
½ teaspoon mustard powder (enhances cheese flavor)
2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp)
1 cup shredded Colby Jack or Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot for boiling pasta
Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
Whisk
Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions).
Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon butter to keep the pasta from sticking.

2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and golden (this creates a roux).
Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth.
Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and mustard powder.
Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, Colby Jack, and Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and creamy.

3. Combine & Serve

Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated.
Let the mac and cheese sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
Serve warm with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or hot sauce (optional).

Expert Tips for the Best Southern Mac and Cheese

Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Don’t overcook the pasta – Slightly undercooked pasta will absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
For extra creaminess, add ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the roux step – This ensures the sauce thickens properly and stays smooth.
Overheating the cheese – Always melt cheese on low heat to prevent it from separating.
Adding cheese too early – Let the sauce cool slightly before stirring in cheese to avoid curdling.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve warm in bowls with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top.
Pair with BBQ ribs, fried chicken, or collard greens for a full Southern meal.
Garnish with crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Heat over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Microwave: Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until creamy.

Freezing:

Not recommended, as dairy-based sauces may separate when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

Make it spicy – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Use different cheeses – Try Gouda, Pepper Jack, or Smoked Cheddar for a unique twist.
Make it extra indulgent – Stir in crispy bacon, lobster, or shredded BBQ chicken.

What to Serve with Southern Mac and Cheese

BBQ brisket or pulled pork
Southern-style fried chicken
Collard greens or roasted Brussels sprouts
Cornbread or garlic biscuits

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes! Evaporated milk is often used in Southern mac and cheese for a rich, creamy texture.

How do I keep my mac and cheese creamy?

Use whole milk and heavy cream, and reheat with a splash of milk to prevent drying out.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Make the cheese sauce ahead and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

This Southern Stovetop Mac and Cheese is creamy, rich, and packed with bold flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food! Whether served as a main dish or side, it’s an easy, cheesy recipe that everyone will love.

Try it today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more comforting Southern recipes!

Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 450 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Serves: 6

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