When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the indulgent pleasure of a perfectly baked macaroni and cheese. The creamy sauce, the al dente pasta, and the golden-brown crust all come together to create a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. And when it comes to baking macaroni and cheese, few are more iconic than Paula Deen, the Queen of Southern Cooking. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipes inspired by Paula Deen herself, each one a delicious twist on the classic comfort food.
From Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese with a golden crust to three-cheese baked macaroni and cheese with mozzarella and parmesan, these recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a rich and creamy sauce or a crispy breadcrumb topping, we’ve got you covered. So grab your mixing bowl and your pasta of choice, and get ready to dive into the world of creamy baked macaroni and cheese like never before.
Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese with a golden crust
A classic comfort food dish gets a Southern twist with this recipe, featuring a golden-brown crust and creamy macaroni and cheese filling.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with melted butter, breadcrumbs, and additional grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic baked macaroni and cheese with a rich cheddar sauce
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Rich Cheddar Sauce
This comforting dish is a staple of many households, and for good reason: the combination of creamy cheese sauce, al dente pasta, and crispy breadcrumb topping is a match made in heaven. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a rich and indulgent macaroni and cheese that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Optional: chopped herbs or spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until combined.
8. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: approximately 40-45 minutes
Spicy baked macaroni and cheese with jalapeños and bacon
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy macaroni dish loaded with crispy bacon and a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 4 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni, crumbled bacon, and diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy baked macaroni and cheese with a hint of garlic
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe, infused with the subtle flavor of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, flour, melted butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping
Baked macaroni and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping – a comforting classic!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese, milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and dot the top with butter.
6. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-cheese baked macaroni and cheese with mozzarella and parmesan
Classic Comfort Food: Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Mozzarella and Parmesan
This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is a staple of comfort food at its finest. With the perfect blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux.
- Pour in milk and stir until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
- Add paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan. Mix well.
- Pour mixture into a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a creamy gruyère twist
Elevate your mac and cheese game with this rich and creamy recipe, featuring the nutty flavor of Gruyère. Perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated Gruyère
– 1 cup grated cheddar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente, then set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine Gruyère, cheddar, heavy cream, whole milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern baked macaroni and cheese with a velvety Velveeta base
Classic Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Velveeta Base
This comforting dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, featuring a creamy Velveeta base, al dente pasta, and a crispy golden-brown topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt Velveeta over medium heat, whisking constantly.
4. Add milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir until smooth.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and Velveeta mixture; mix well.
7. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish; top with panko breadcrumbs and dot with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a tangy buttermilk finish
This comforting casserole combines classic baked macaroni and cheese with a tangy twist, courtesy of a drizzle of buttermilk at the end. The result is a rich, creamy pasta dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Buttermilk, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Add butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper; stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture; toss until well coated.
5. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with buttermilk. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked gouda baked macaroni and cheese with a hint of paprika
Elevate the classic comfort dish by combining the creamy richness of smoked gouda cheese with the subtle smokiness of paprika. This recipe yields a mac ‘n’ cheese that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in smoked Gouda and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mac ‘n’ cheese is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a creamy goat cheese addition
A comforting twist on a classic comfort food, this recipe combines the richness of goat cheese with the warmth of baked macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Stir in goat cheese until well combined.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a smoky bacon and onion blend
Elevate a classic comfort food with the rich flavors of smoky bacon and caramelized onions. This recipe combines tender macaroni, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy, savory toppings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 6 slices of smoky bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and paprika. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, smoky bacon, and onion mixture. Pour cheese sauce over the top and mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese and crispy bacon bits.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Creamy baked macaroni and cheese with a touch of truffle oil
This classic comfort food gets a luxurious twist with the addition of truffle oil, adding an earthy depth to the creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add truffle oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a spicy sriracha kick
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a bold kick from the addition of sriracha, adding a spicy depth to this comfort food classic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add milk, heavy cream, butter, and sriracha sauce to the cheese mixture. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a rich fontina cheese sauce
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe, featuring a decadent fontina cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated fontina cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni al dente, then set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and fontina cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; mix well.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern baked macaroni and cheese with a buttery cracker topping
Classic Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Buttery Cracker Topping
This creamy, comforting dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, elevated by the crunch and richness of a buttery cracker topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with crushed crackers and melted butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a creamy mascarpone twist
Elevate your classic macaroni and cheese game with the addition of creamy mascarpone cheese! This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Stir in mascarpone cheese until well combined.
6. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked macaroni and cheese with a zesty lemon and herb finish
Elevate the classic comfort food with a bright and citrusy twist! This baked macaroni and cheese recipe combines rich and creamy pasta with a zesty lemon and herb finish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon zest (from 1 lemon) and chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni al dente; set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, whisk together flour and butter until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with these 18 creative baked macaroni and cheese recipes inspired by Paula Deen. From classic cheddar to spicy jalapeño, creamy goat cheese to smoky bacon, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Get ready to indulge in rich, velvety sauces, crispy breadcrumb toppings, and gooey melted cheeses. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering, these baked macaroni and cheese recipes are sure to become new favorites.