How To Make The BEST Old School Southern Mac & Cheese #macandcheese

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheddar lowers calories without sacrificing flavor.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: shell pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and nutrients.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and contains good fats.

Boil elbow pasta in salted water with chicken bouillon for 8-10 minutes until al dente.

Melt 3 tbsp of unsalted butter in a saucepan.

Add 1 tbsp of flour and cook briefly to remove raw taste.

Stir in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, mixing quickly to avoid lumps.

Add 2 oz of cream cheese and sour cream to the mixture.

Season with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, celery salt, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and optional Creole seasoning.

Stir in a mixture of mozzarella, Gouda, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses, reserving some for topping.

Drain the cooked pasta and mix it into the cheese sauce.

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, layering with cheese in between.

Top with remaining cheese and a sprinkle of paprika.

Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 30 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens