What’s up, Eat-Your-Family?! Y’all have been tearing me up in the comments asking for this one—and I’m finally delivering the real-deal creamy baked mac and cheese. Not that lazy version. I’m talking buttery roux, bold spices, a creamy cheese sauce with a kick, and noodles cooked in chicken broth for extra flavor.
This one’s not just side-dish energy. Pair it with some hot wings, and you got yourself a meal that might make you eat your hand (but please don’t, we’re not responsible 😅).
🥘 Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe (with a Kick!)
🛒 Ingredients
Cheese Blend
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
(Or use your fave cheese blend—freshly grated is best!)
Cheese Sauce
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup evaporated milk (Carnation)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp jalapeño juice (optional, for that kick)
- All the shredded cheeses (above)
Seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp Tony’s Creole seasoning (optional)
Pasta
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- Water + chicken broth (50/50 mix) to boil
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon base
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon cube or powder
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, boil macaroni in half water, half chicken broth, plus chicken bouillon.
Boil for about 9 minutes, then drain. Don’t overcook—it’ll finish in the oven.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, evaporated milk, chicken broth, and jalapeño juice.
Stir continuously until smooth and creamy.
Add in the shredded cheeses and mix until fully melted.
3. Season It Up
Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, salt, and Creole seasoning.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Combine & Bake
Mix cheese sauce with drained pasta in a large baking dish.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, uncovered.
For a golden top, broil 3–4 minutes at the end—keep an eye on it!
🔥 Pro Tips
Grate your own cheese—it melts way better and gives more flavor.
Jalapeño juice adds a subtle heat. Want more spice? Toss in a dash of hot sauce!
For extra creamy results, don’t skimp on the cream or cheese.
📸 Serving Idea
Serve it with crispy hot wings or BBQ ribs for the ultimate Southern comfort plate. 🍗💥
📌 Save it & Share It!
Tag your foodie crew and save this mac for the holidays, potlucks, or your next soul food Sunday.
