• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Pink Owl Kitchen
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Summer
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Work w/Me
  • Saucy Cookbook
  • E-Book
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Summer
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Work w/Me
  • Saucy Cookbook
  • E-Book
×
  • Jalapeño cheddar cornbread with spicy honey butter fresh out of the oven.
    Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread with Spicy Honey Butter
  • Photo of creamy cheesy corn casserole baked with cheddar and chives.
    Creamy Cheesy Corn Casserole
  • Buttermilk biscuit breakfast casserole serving on a plate.
    Buttermilk Biscuit Breakfast Casserole
  • Brown butter pistachio chocolate chip cookies on a baking sheet.
    Brown Butter Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • A serving of million dollar spaghetti on a white plate.
    Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake
  • A pan of shrimp and sausage jambalaya, packed with vibrant colors, bold Cajun spices, and hearty ingredients on a tabletop.
    How to Make Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya (One Pot Meal!)
  • 17 Delicious Easter Side Dishes
  • cajun shrimp boil on a large platter.
    Cajun Shrimp Boil
  • vegan southern collard greens in a white bowl sitting on a cutting board.
    Vegan Southern Collard Greens
  • Cajun oven baked sweet potato fries on a wooden cutting board.
    Cajun Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
  • buffalo catfish slider held in a hand.
    Buffalo Catfish Sliders
  • Eggnog pie in a glass baking dish on a table top.
    Eggnog Pie
Pink Owl Kitchen » Recipes » southern recipes » Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese (Soul Food Recipe!)

Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese (Soul Food Recipe!)

Published: Jul 10, 2019 · Modified: May 21, 2025 by Ashley · This post may contain affiliate links

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This Southern-style baked mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Made with a blend of cheeses and a creamy sauce, it's baked to golden perfection with a crisp, bubbly top. Whether you’re bringing it to a Sunday dinner, holiday table, or potluck, this comforting dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

A serving of creamy southern baked mac & cheese on a serving spoon.

For more southern side dishes, try our soul food candied yams or southern chicken and dressing recipes next!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra creamy and cheesy. Thanks to cream cheese, sour cream, and four types of freshly grated cheese.
  • Rich southern flavor. Enhanced with smoked paprika, mustard powder, and a hint of cayenne.
  • Perfectly baked. With a golden, bubbling crust and tender macaroni in every bite.

Ingredients and Substitution Notes

The detailed ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Ingredients for making creamy southern baked mac & cheese arranged on a table.

Pasta & Liquid

  • Elbow macaroni. You can also use shells, penne, or cavatappi.
  • Chicken broth or water for boiling. Broth adds more flavor.

Creamy Base

  • Butter. Unsalted is preferred, but salted works too.
  • Cream cheese. Optional for extra creaminess. Mascarpone or Neufchâtel are good substitutes.
  • Evaporated milk. Can be replaced with whole milk or a mix of milk and cream.
  • Half and half. Substitute with equal parts milk and heavy cream.
  • Sour cream. Greek yogurt or crème fraîche also work well.

Seasonings

  • Salt and pepper. Adjust to taste.
  • Garlic powder and onion powder. You can also use fresh sautéed garlic and onion.
  • Smoked paprika. Regular paprika or chipotle powder are good alternatives.
  • Mustard powder. Use Dijon or yellow mustard as a substitute.
  • Cayenne pepper. Optional, depending on your spice preference.

Cheese Blend

  • Sharp cheddar. Mild or white cheddar are also great options.
  • Colby jack. Monterey Jack works as a substitute.
  • Mozzarella. Fontina or provolone provide similar meltiness.
  • Smoked gouda. Swap with smoked cheddar or gruyère for a smoky flavor.

Binder

  • Eggs. Can be replaced with cornstarch or flour for an egg-free version, though texture will vary.

How to Make It

Cooked elbow macaroni in a pot with butter and cream cheese.

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just shy of al dente. The noodles should still be firm to the bite.

Cooked elbow macaroni combined with butter and cream cheese in a pot.

Step 2. Drain, return to the pot, and stir in butter and cubed cream cheese. Keep warm over low heat.

Cheese and cream mixture for southern baked mac & cheese in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, half and half, sour cream, and all seasonings until well combined. Stir in the grated cheeses using a wooden spoon, reserving about 1½ cups to sprinkle on top later.

Creamy pasta and cheese mixture for southern baked mac & cheese in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4. Add the warm pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Gently stir in the beaten eggs.

Southern baked mac & cheese in a baking dish before going into the oven.

Step 5. Transfer the mac and cheese to the prepared baking dish. Top with the reserved cheese.

Freshly baked southern mac & cheese in a baking dish.

Step 6. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the mac and cheese rest for 10 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.

Tips for Success

  • Use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
  • Don’t skip the cream cheese. It adds an incredible silkiness to the sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Start with less salt and adjust based on the cheese blend.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
  • Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this southern baked mac and cheese with:

  • Fried catfish or BBQ ribs
  • Collard greens or roasted vegetables
  • Cornbread or garlic knots
Detailed photo of southern baked mac & cheese in a baking dish.

FAQs

What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
A blend of sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, mozzarella, and smoked gouda creates great flavor and meltiness. Feel free to swap cheeses based on your preference.

Can I use milk instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, whole milk or a combination of milk and cream can replace evaporated milk, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

How do I make it spicy?
Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce to increase the heat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture and flavor. For a dairy-free version, you'd need specialized dairy-free cheeses and cream substitutes, but the texture and taste will differ.

Final Thoughts

This is truly the ultimate baked mac and cheese recipe for any occasion. It’s creamy, bold, and irresistibly cheesy. Whether you're serving it for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinner, or just because, your guests will be begging for the recipe!

More Southern Recipes You Will Love!

  • Southern hashbrown casserole on a serving spoon to show detail.
    Southern Hashbrown Casserole
  • Crawfish cornbread dressing in a baking dish.
    Crawfish Cornbread Dressing
  • sweet potato cornbread with maple butter on a white plate.
    Sweet Potato Cornbread with Maple Butter
  • Cajun potato soup in a bowl sitting on top of a cutting board.
    Creamy Cajun Potato Soup

Pin it for later! 📌

"May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands."

Psalms 90:17

If you tried this Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe, leave a comment and ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below! Don't forget to tag @thepinkowlkitchen on Instagram with your cheesy creations.

📖 Recipe

A serving of creamy southern baked mac & cheese on a serving spoon.

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese (Soul Food Recipe!)

Ashley Boyd
This Southern-style baked mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Made with a blend of cheeses and a creamy sauce, it's baked to golden perfection with a crisp, bubbly top. Whether you’re bringing it to a Sunday dinner, holiday table, or potluck, this comforting dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
4.70 from 99 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 55 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prevent your screen from going dark
Servings 10 Servings
Calories 440 kcal

Equipment

  • 9 x 13 baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Food processor
  • Box cheese grater

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces dried elbow macaroni
  • 6 to 8 cups chicken broth or water - broth adds more flavor
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - plus more for greasing the baking dish
  • 4 ounces cream cheese - room temperature, cubed
  • 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
  • 1 ½ cups half and half
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt - to taste
  • 16 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese - freshly grated
  • 8 ounces colby jack cheese - freshly grated
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese - freshly grated
  • 4 ounces smoked gouda cheese - freshly grated
  • 2 large eggs - beaten

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Generously butter a 9 x 13 baking dish and set aside.
  • Cook the elbow macaroni noodles in salted water until they are almost al-dente and still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta, place it back in the pot, and toss it with two tablespoons of butter and cubed creamed cheese. Keep the pasta warm over low heat while combining the other ingredients.
  • Add the evaporated milk, half and half, sour cream, and seasonings to a large mixing bowl, and whisk to combine.
  • Stir in the cheese with a wooden spoon, reserving about a cup and a half for topping the mac and cheese. Pour the warm elbow macaroni into the bowl with the milk and cheese mixture and stir to combine all of the ingredients. Taste the mixture and add more salt to taste if needed. Gently stir in the beaten eggs.
  • Transfer the macaroni and cheese to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Bake the mac and cheese for 35 to 45 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Allow the mac and cheese to cool for about 10 minutes and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese! Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents added that affect melting. Use a food processor with the grater attachment to save time.
  • Taste the mac and cheese for seasoning before adding the eggs and add more salt to taste if needed.
  • Storage and Reheating
    • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
    • Reheat: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
    • Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 440kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 88mg | Sodium: 560mg | Fiber: 1.6g | Sugar: 5.3g
Tried this recipe?Tag @thepinkowlkitchen on Instagram! And don't forget to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and review!

More Southern Recipes

  • Cajun shrimp dip in a cast-iron skillet on a tabletop.
    Cajun Shrimp Dip
  • spiced sweet potato bread with pecans sliced on a cutting board.
    Spiced Sweet Potato Bread with Pecans
  • memphis honey gold wings on a plate with celery.
    Memphis Honey Gold Wings
  • memphis honey gold sauce in a glass jar with a gold spoon.
    Memphis Honey Gold Sauce

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Teresa Okeefe

    November 20, 2024 at 1:53 am

    5 stars
    YES!!!!! Please let them know--- NO ROUX!

    Reply
  2. Michael

    November 03, 2024 at 8:04 pm

    5 stars
    My mom's people are from southeast Georgia and this is like they all use to make it. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      November 04, 2024 at 5:15 pm

      I love that! Southern mac and cheese is something special. Enjoy!

      Reply
  3. Maggie

    September 15, 2023 at 5:37 pm

    I'm anxious to try this but I'm wondering: Is there a reason you add the eggs after the rest of the ingredients are placed in the baking pan, rather than adding to the mixing bowl?

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      September 18, 2023 at 2:59 pm

      Hi Maggie. You may add the eggs to the mixing bowl. Just be sure to do so after you have tasted for seasoning adjustments. I hope you love the recipe!

      Reply
  4. Lori

    November 23, 2022 at 1:27 am

    5 stars
    Did a dry run of this recipe and it was yummy!!!! Going to tweak it a bit to make it a little less salty ( hypertension runs in the family) but otherwise it was perfect! Thank you!

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      November 28, 2022 at 10:00 pm

      Love to hear it! Thank you for trying our recipe.

      Reply
  5. Crystal

    November 20, 2022 at 6:24 pm

    Hello I am also from Mississippi and I will be making this dish I am so excited love my southern soul foods.

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      November 21, 2022 at 4:10 pm

      I hope you love the recipe Crystal!

      Reply
  6. Christina

    November 19, 2022 at 1:41 pm

    5 stars
    I have been looking for a good Mac & Cheese recipe! I love the fact you have eggs in it. I will be making this for our Thanksgiving spread this year. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      November 21, 2022 at 4:12 pm

      Awesome! I hope you love the recipe!

      Reply
  7. Megan

    June 04, 2022 at 3:25 pm

    5 stars
    I wish I could give this 10 stars! I’m also from the south and this macaroni and cheese recipe is the closest to what I ate growing up out of all that I’ve tried! This is true, southern style mac and cheese! I will keep this recipe handy for every holiday and family dinner.

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      June 10, 2022 at 5:06 pm

      Megan, this comment just made my day! I’m so happy you enjoyed the macaroni and cheese recipe. Thank you for giving it a try!

      Reply
  8. Peggy

    April 26, 2022 at 7:18 pm

    There is nothing in the list of recipes how many eggs to add to it. I don’t understand why

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      April 26, 2022 at 7:26 pm

      Two large eggs!

      Reply
  9. Marlon Boyd

    April 26, 2022 at 2:12 am

    5 stars
    Perfect mac and cheese! My family loved it! I will def be making this every holiday season!

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      April 26, 2022 at 3:35 am

      I'm so happy you and your family love the mac and cheese! Thank you for trying the recipe!

      Reply
    • Mike

      June 27, 2024 at 11:49 pm

      5 stars
      You think it would hurt to add and extra egg to it?

      Reply
      • Ashley Boyd

        June 28, 2024 at 10:50 pm

        Not at all! An extra egg will only make it more sturdy and custard-like. I hope you enjoy the recipe!

        Reply
  10. Rebecca

    November 06, 2021 at 8:45 pm

    How has no one commented on this yet!? This Mac and cheese is DELICIOUS and now a staple in our home. I could actually live off it. My grandmother was from the south and we grew up with Mac and cheese on the thanksgiving table and while I loved it, I love trying more bold and spiced recipes. This one is it. Thank you for this delicious recipe and today it’s being served at our Friendsgiving

    Reply
    • Ashley Boyd

      November 17, 2021 at 4:46 pm

      Hi Rebecca,

      This comment just warms my heart! I am so happy that you enjoy the flavors of this southern mac and cheese recipe! I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

      Reply
4.70 from 99 votes (92 ratings without comment)

Share Your Thoughts! Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Ashley boyd leaning over counter in the kitchen.

HEY Y'ALL!

I’m Ashley, the wife, mama, and heart behind Pink Owl Kitchen. Cooking brings me so much joy, and I love sharing the comforting Southern flavors that shaped my childhood. My hope is that each recipe fills your home with warmth, love, and the sweet presence of Jesus.

More about me →

Featured In

Summer Side Dishes

  • A serving of creamy southern baked mac & cheese on a serving spoon.
    Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese (Soul Food Recipe!)
  • Photo of a serving of southern squash casserole on a serving spoon.
    Southern Squash Casserole
  • Southern baked beans in a cast iron skillet with a wooden spoon.
    Southern Baked Beans
  • Southern hush puppies in a metal baking pan with a blue linen underneath on top of a white surface.
    Southern Hush Puppies Recipe
  • Southern deviled eggs arranged on a serving platter.
    Southern Deviled Eggs
  • Cajun potato salad in a white bowl sitting on top of a wooden surface.
    Cajun Potato Salad

Trending Recipes

  • Southern candied yams in a white baking dish with a wooden serving spoon.
    The Best Southern Soul Food Candied Yams (w/ Video!)
  • Chocolate Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)
  • Cajun dirty rice with smoked sausage in a white bowl.
    Cajun Dirty Rice with Smoked Sausage
  • brown sugar glazed chicken in a cast-iron skillet.
    Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Chicken
  • southern oven fried catfish on a wooden cutting board.
    Oven Fried Catfish
  • Hot honey chicken thighs on a black plate sitting on top of a white wooden surface.
    Hot Honey Chicken Thighs

Get your copy of my first cookbook, Saucy, now!

cover of the cookbook, Saucy, by Ashley Boyd.

Footer

↑ back to top

  • Privacy Policy and Disclaimers
  • Accessibility Policy
  • Sign Up! for emails and updates
  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2025 Pink Owl Kitchen LLC, all rights reserved

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.