Indulge in a culinary journey to the heart of Southern comfort food with Mel's Southern Mac and Cheese, a dish that embodies the essence of cheesy goodness. This delectable casserole combines a creamy blend of cheeses, tender macaroni pasta, and a hint of zesty spices, resulting in a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. But that's not all! This article offers a diverse collection of mac and cheese recipes, each with its unique twist on this classic dish. From the smoky and savory flavor of the Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese to the decadent richness of the Lobster Mac and Cheese, there's a perfect recipe for every palate. So, prepare to embark on a cheesy adventure as we delve into the secrets of Mel's Southern Mac and Cheese and discover a world of mac and cheese variations that will transform your mealtimes into unforgettable culinary experiences.
Let's cook with our recipes!
HOW TO MAKE THE BEST BAKED MAC AND CHEESE RECIPE BY TASTY
Nothing says comfort like a homemade baked mac and cheese. Our favorite version is made with a luscious and creamy sauce that pools in the pasta shells for the ultimate cheesy feel-good food.
Provided by Aleya Zenieris
Time 1h
Yield 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 2 minutes less than recommended on the package (you want the pasta to have a slight bite; it will finish cooking while it bakes).
- In a large bowl, combine 8 ounces shredded cheddar with the American cheese and cornstarch. Use your fingers to gently toss until all of the cheese is coated.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. As the butter begins to sizzle, add the mustard powder and cayenne and stir to combine. Toast the spices until the butter turns golden brown, about 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the milk begins to simmer, with small bubbles rapidly rising to the surface, about 3 minutes.
- Whisk the egg in a small bowl, then temper it by slowly adding in spoonfuls of the simmering milk mixture while continuing to whisk until incorporated.
- Slowly drizzle the tempered egg back into the milk mixture, whisking vigorously until the egg is fully incorporated.
- Remove the pot from the heat and add the cheddar cheese mixture, a small handful at a time, whisking between each addition to make sure the cheese melts evenly (mix quickly enough that the mixture does not cool too rapidly, but slowly enough that the emulsion does not break).
- Add the cooked pasta to the pot and gently fold to coat with the sauce, then season with 1 teaspoon salt. Pour the pasta and sauce into an 8-inch square baking dish with 2-inch-high sides (at this point, the pasta can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 3 days).
- In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 2 ounces of cheddar cheese, the mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle on top of the pasta.
- Bake the mac and cheese until the cheese is melted and beginning to bubble around the edges, about 20 minutes. Turn the broiler on high and broil the mac and cheese until the cheese begins to brown all over, about 5 minutes. Let the mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes for the sauce set and cool slightly.
- Serve warm.
- Enjoy!
SOUTHERN MAC AND CHEESE
Homemade mac and cheese is often prepared with a flour-based sauce. This Southern version uses a base of eggs and half-and-half for a tasty, custardy alternative.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Ingredients Pasta and Grains
Time 40m
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Set a large pot of salted water to boil. Preheat oven to 350. Butter four 10-ounce ramekins. Cook pasta 3 minutes short of al dente; drain.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups cheddar, eggs, half-and-half, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Add pasta, and stir to combine; divide among ramekins.
- In a food processor, pulse bread and melted butter until coarse crumbs form; season with salt and pepper. Dividing evenly, top pasta mixture with 1/2 cup cheddar, then sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Place ramekins on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until mac and cheese is golden and bubbling, about 20 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 611 g, Fat 32 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 28 g
Tips:
- Use a flavorful cheese blend. Mel's recipe calls for a combination of sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, but you can use any type of cheese that you like. Just make sure to use a good quality cheese that will melt smoothly.
- Cook the macaroni al dente. You don't want the macaroni to be too soft or mushy, so cook it until it is just al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
- Make a roux. A roux is a mixture of flour and butter that is used to thicken the cheese sauce. It helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Use evaporated milk. Evaporated milk is a good choice for mac and cheese because it is thick and creamy. It also helps to prevent the sauce from curdling.
- Season the sauce to taste. Mel's recipe calls for salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, but you can adjust the seasonings to your own taste.
- Add mix-ins. If you want to add some extra flavor or texture to your mac and cheese, you can add mix-ins such as cooked bacon, crumbled sausage, or chopped vegetables.
- Bake the mac and cheese until it is golden brown and bubbly. This will help to create a crispy top and a creamy interior.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the sauce to set and will prevent it from being too runny.
Conclusion:
Mel's Southern Mac and Cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to your own taste. So next time you are looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal, give Mel's recipe a try.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love