Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese @001SapoBBQ

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheddar cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Low-fat cheddar reduces calories while processed cheese melts better.

monterey jack cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: colby cheese

Part-skim mozzarella is lower in fat, while colby is often less expensive.

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt adds creaminess with fewer calories, while sour cream is often cheaper.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier, while margarine can be a cheaper substitute.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.

Add cheddar cheese and monterey jack cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Mix in mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.

Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish.

Top with bread crumbs and a sprinkle of paprika.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens