best southern macaroni and cheese recipe ever

The Best Southern Macaroni and Cheese Recipe Ever

Growing up in the South, I was spoiled with the rich flavors and comforting dishes that my family would often share together. One of those beloved dishes that holds a special place in my heart is my grandmother's classic Southern macaroni and cheese recipe.

Unlike some traditional macaroni and cheese recipes that use a roux or béchamel sauce, this 'custard-style' recipe uses eggs and evaporated milk to create a creamy, cheesy sauce. And let me tell you, it's absolutely divine.

The key to making the best Southern macaroni and cheese is to cook the noodles just right, then layer them with cheese in a baking dish. The secret ingredient? Butter! By adding thin pats of butter on top of the cheese, it adds an extra layer of flavor and richness to the dish.

Here's my grandmother's recipe for the best Southern macaroni and cheese ever:

Ingredients:

* 1 pound macaroni

* 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (reserving 2 cups for the top layer)

* 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into thin pats

* 2 cups evaporated milk

* 2 eggs

* Salt and pepper to taste

* Mustard powder and cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.

3. While the noodles are cooking, combine the evaporated milk, eggs, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl and mix thoroughly.

4. Spray a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray and layer the cooked macaroni, cheese, and milk mixture evenly into the dish (aim for about 4 layers of noodles).

5. Top the final layer of noodles with the reserved 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese.

6. Bake the dish uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until the cheese is lightly browned and the macaroni is bubbly.

7. Remove from oven, let rest for 20-25 minutes before serving.

And there you have it - the best Southern macaroni and cheese recipe ever! This dish has been passed down through generations in my family and is always a crowd pleaser. So go ahead, give it a try, and I promise you won't be disappointed.

Best southern macaroni and cheese recipe ever