best ever mac and cheese southern living

The Best Ever Mac and Cheese: A Southern Living Staple

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a perfectly crafted macaroni and cheese dish. As a staple of Southern cuisine, this beloved classic has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe.

At its core, macaroni and cheese is all about the pasta – or rather, the type of pasta you choose. Opt for a shape like cavatappi or elbow macaroni that has plenty of nooks and crannies for capturing pockets of cheesy goodness. And don't be afraid to get flexible with your noodles; after all, it's all about finding the perfect balance between creaminess and texture.

Southern Living has perfected the art of macaroni and cheese, offering a range of recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. From our Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese, which evokes nostalgic memories of Grandmama's table, to our Cajun Mac and Cheese, which transports you straight to the French Quarter, each recipe is a masterclass in comfort food.

But what sets these recipes apart from their boxed counterparts? It's all about the attention to detail, from ultra-creamy sauces to flavorful baked toppings that add an extra layer of depth and complexity. And with ingredients like sharp cheddar cheese, freshly cooked pasta, and a hint of salt and pepper, you can't help but feel like you're indulging in a little slice of heaven.

So go ahead, get creative with your macaroni and cheese recipe, and experience the comforting warmth of Southern Living's take on this classic dish. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it's no wonder why macaroni and cheese remains a staple of Southern cuisine – and a favorite among foodies and comfort food enthusiasts alike.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

* 1 (16-oz.) package elbow macaroni

* 2 cups milk

* 2 tablespoons butter

* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

* 1 (8 ounce) package sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided

Directions:

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions.

2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 1 minute.

4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.

6. Stir in the salt, pepper, and half of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

7. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.

8. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.

9. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

The Best Macaroni and Cheese You've Ever Had

Longing for macaroni and cheese like Mom used to make? Look no further! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, with its creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and generous helping of melted cheese. And when you pair it with a side of crispy fried chicken or a warm, buttery biscuit, you'll be in macaroni and cheese heaven.

Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio: A Southern Living Favorite

Did you know that Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, an American actress born on November 17, 1958, got her start in the entertainment industry with a role in the 1980 revival of West Side Story? She went on to appear in films like Scarface and television shows like Law & Order. But what's most interesting is that she's also a big fan of macaroni and cheese – just like many of us!

Best ever mac and cheese southern living