15 Delicious Southern Mac And Cheese Recipes to Impress Your Guests

Written by Veronica E. Rogers in Dinner

There’s no doubt that Southern mac and cheese is the ultimate dish that can turn any gathering into a culinary celebration. With rich flavors and creamy textures, it’s a comfort food that pleases every palate. But what if you could take this classic and elevate it with gourmet twists? Imagine impressing your guests with variations like Lobster Mac and Cheese or Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese. Let’s explore these mouthwatering recipes that guarantee satisfaction.

Classic Southern Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: breadcrumbs for topping

How to Make:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
  4. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
  5. Stir in the mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for added flavor.
  6. Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Fold in the cooked macaroni, making sure every piece is coated in that cheesy goodness.
  8. Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish. If you like, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
  9. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, then dig in and enjoy the cheesy comfort!

This Classic Southern Mac and Cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

How to Make:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it’s light and bubbly.
  5. Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
  6. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  7. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and crumbled feta until melted and smooth.
  8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat every noodle.
  9. Pour the cheesy mix into the prepared baking dish and top with breadcrumbs if desired.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve this delicious Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese hot, and watch it disappear in no time! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese

Get ready for a creamy, cheesy delight with a spicy kick that’ll make your taste buds dance!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1-2 jalapeños, diced (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

How to Make:

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  5. Add the cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Fold in the cooked macaroni and diced jalapeños until well combined.
  7. If you like a crunchy topping, pour the mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!

Dig into this spicy jalapeño mac and cheese, and let the flavor explosion begin!

Lobster Mac and Cheese

Indulge in a luxurious twist on a classic favorite with Lobster Mac and Cheese!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  • 2 cups fresh lobster meat, cooked and chopped
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make:

  1. Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Then, add the cheddar and Gruyère cheese, mixing until fully melted and creamy.
  5. Fold in the cooked macaroni and the chopped lobster meat until everything is well combined.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  9. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley.

Dive into this decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese

Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with this delicious BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese that combines creamy goodness with smoky flavors!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make:

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken and BBQ sauce until well coated.
  3. In another bowl, combine the cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add the cooked macaroni and BBQ chicken mixture to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until everything is combined.
  5. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Dig in and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic comfort food!

Southern-Style Mac and Cheese With Bacon

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Southern-Style Mac and Cheese with a crispy bacon twist!

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crumbled cooked bacon
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

How to Make:

  1. Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Fold in the cooked macaroni and crumbled bacon, ensuring everything is well-coated in that cheesy goodness.
  7. If you like a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and the remaining cheese.
  8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors!

Dig into this Southern delight and let each bite transport you to comfort food heaven!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Garlic Parmesan Mac and Cheese—comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make:

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the flour to the pan and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
  5. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Fold in the cooked macaroni until well coated in the cheese sauce.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Dig into this creamy delight that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese

Get ready to spice up your mac and cheese game with this zesty Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and buffalo sauce; stir until the chicken is well coated.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, milk, ranch dressing, and half of the cheddar cheese until smooth.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir well to combine.
  6. Fold in the buffalo chicken mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Transfer the entire mixture to a greased baking dish.
  8. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, blue cheese (if using), and breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  10. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color.

Dig in and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness of this Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Mac and Cheese With Collard Greens

Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game with a delicious twist of collard greens!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups chopped collard greens (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for a kick

How to Make:

  1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the chopped collard greens and cook for about 5 minutes until they’re tender.
  4. Add the milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Mix well.
  5. Gradually stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Fold in the cooked macaroni and mix until everything is well combined.
  7. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top and, if you like, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Mac and Cheese With Smoked Gouda

Indulge in the creamy, smoky goodness of Mac and Cheese With Smoked Gouda – a Southern twist on a classic favorite!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

How to Make:

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the smoked Gouda and sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, mixing well to coat every piece.
  7. If you like a crunchy topping, pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
  8. Serve hot and watch it disappear in no time!

Get ready to savor every cheesy, smoky bite of this delightful dish!

Mac and Cheese With Fried Green Tomatoes

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups macaroni pasta
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large green tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • Oil for frying

How to Make:

  1. Cook macaroni pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
  3. Gradually add milk and stir until the mixture thickens.
  4. Mix in cream cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing until well coated.
  6. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Dip green tomato slices in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  7. Fry the tomato slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  8. Serve the mac and cheese topped with crispy fried green tomatoes, and dig in!

Get ready for a comfort food experience that’s all about Southern charm and deliciousness!

Pimento Cheese Mac and Cheese

Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight with a Southern twist: Pimento Cheese Mac and Cheese!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup pimento cheese (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: crumbled bacon or breadcrumbs for topping

How to Make:

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and pimento cheese until melted and creamy.
  5. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Fold in the cooked macaroni until well coated with the cheese sauce.
  7. If you like, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle crumbled bacon or breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy goodness with a smile!

Dig into this Pimento Cheese Mac and Cheese and savor each creamy, cheesy bite!

Mac and Cheese With Crab Meat

Indulge in a coastal twist with this creamy Mac and Cheese with Crab Meat that will elevate your comfort food game!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lb lump crab meat, picked through for shells
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Let it thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and creamy.
  6. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and lump crab meat until well combined.
  8. If using, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
  9. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Get ready for a deliciously creamy bite that feels like a hug from the ocean! Enjoy your Mac and Cheese with Crab Meat!

Mac and Cheese With Shrimp and Grits

Get ready to indulge in a Southern twist on a classic favorite with this Mac and Cheese with Shrimp and Grits!

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup grits
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth (for grits)
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup cream cheese
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make:

  1. Start by cooking the macaroni according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
  2. In a separate pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil, then stir in the grits. Reduce the heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. While the grits are cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and sauté until pink and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Once the grits are ready, stir in the cream cheese and milk until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix in the cooked macaroni.
  5. Fold in the sautéed shrimp and half of the cheddar cheese, mixing until everything is well combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheddar cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot!

Dig into this creamy, cheesy delight that brings the best of the South straight to your table! Enjoy!

Mac and Cheese With Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

How to Make:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. On a baking sheet, toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  6. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and both cheeses. Stir until melted and creamy.
  7. Combine the cooked macaroni and roasted vegetables in a large bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat everything.
  8. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Dig into this creamy, cheesy delight packed with flavorful roasted veggies—your taste buds will thank you!

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