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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Southern baked mac and cheese has a creamy egg-and-milk custard, a golden top, and noodles that stay slightly firm after baking. Bake it uncovered in a 9x13-inch dish and let it rest before serving.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 53 minutes
Resting 13 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 21 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 qt water
  • 2.25 tsp kosher salt divided
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter divided
  • 3 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded (12 ounces)
  • 2 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded (8 ounces)
  • 3 eggs large
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 0.5 tsp dry mustard
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp paprika

Equipment

  • 1 8-quart pot
  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Bring the water to a boil in an 8-quart pot and stir in 2 teaspoons of the kosher salt.
  3. Add the macaroni and cook 1-2 minutes less than the package’s al dente time, usually 6-8 minutes, until still slightly firm; drain well.
  4. Melt the butter.
  5. Use 1 tablespoon of the melted butter to grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  6. Toss the drained macaroni with the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a large mixing bowl.
  7. Stir in 3 cups of the combined cheeses.
  8. Transfer the macaroni to the baking dish.
  9. Scatter the remaining 2 cups of cheese over the top.
  10. Whisk the eggs, evaporated milk, whole milk, dry mustard, black pepper, paprika, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt in a medium bowl.
  11. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the macaroni.
  12. Gently press the noodles so the custard reaches the bottom of the dish.
  13. Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, until the top is golden, the center is set, and the center reaches 160°F.
  14. Rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the best texture, cook the macaroni until still slightly firm so it holds up during baking. Refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days; freezing is suitable. Gluten-free elbow macaroni can be used as a dietary swap.