Can I use different cheeses in this mac and cheese?

Absolutely! While I love the classic sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère combo, the beauty of this dish is how flexible it is. Gouda adds smokiness, fontina melts like a dream, and even a bit of cream cheese makes it extra luscious. Just keep about 4 cups total cheese - going wild with super strong cheeses can overwhelm the dish. And don't forget to share your favorite combos on Pinterest - I'm always looking for new inspiration!

How do I prevent a dry texture?

Oh honey, I've rescued many a dry mac! First, never bake past that golden top - 25 minutes is usually perfect. Second, add an extra 1/4 cup milk if your sauce seems thick before baking. And my secret weapon? A spoonful of sour cream whisked into the sauce - it adds moisture without making it soupy.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

You bet! This is one of my go-to freezer meals for busy weeks. Cool completely, then wrap tightly (I press parchment right on the surface first). Thaw overnight before reheating with a splash of milk at 350°F until bubbly. Pro tip: sprinkle fresh breadcrumbs on after reheating to bring back that signature crunch!

Can I make this kid friendly pasta ahead?

Absolutely! Assemble the whole dish up through breadcrumbs, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Just add 5 extra baking minutes since it's going in cold. Perfect for meal planning those hectic school nights!

Delicious 3-Cheese Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; 2 cups whole milk; 3 tbsp butter; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

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A creamy, cheesy Southern-style mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Total Time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook until thickened.
Add salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in cheeses until melted.
Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
Bake for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

For extra crunch, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before topping.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/southern-baked-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe/