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Creamy Dump and Bake Southern Macaroni and Cheese

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A quick and easy Southern-style macaroni and cheese recipe that is creamy, cheesy, and comforting, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 oz / 225 g), uncooked
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 12 oz / 340 g)
  • 1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese (about 8 oz / 225 g)
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • ½ cup buttermilk (120 ml), optional but recommended
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 56 g), melted
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 3 cups (about 8 oz / 225 g) of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, ½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk, and 2 beaten large eggs until fully combined.
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Fold in 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese.
  5. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese mixture and gently stir until all noodles are coated.
  6. Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter and drizzle over the top.
  7. If desired, sprinkle ½ cup panko breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole.
  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly around the edges and golden brown on top. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
  9. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente is best. Use a blend of sharp cheddar and Velveeta for creaminess. Beat eggs well to avoid scrambling. Add buttermilk for subtle tang. Grease baking dish generously with butter. Bake uncovered for a golden crust. Let rest before serving to set. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, Southern mac and cheese, dump and bake, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy casserole

Find it online: https://sagestirs.com/creamy-dump-and-bake-southern-macaroni-and-cheese-easy-recipe-to-impress/