Paula Deen Mac and Cheese: Southern Comfort Recipe

Mac and cheese is a staple comfort food that has won hearts across generations. However, when it comes to Southern-style mac and cheese, few recipes are as renowned as Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese. Known for its rich, creamy texture and a blend of cheeses, this recipe embodies the essence of Southern comfort cooking. With its buttery base, creamy sauce, and crispy baked topping, Paula Deen’s version takes this classic dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, holiday meal, or just a cozy night in, this mac and cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

What Makes Paula Deen Mac and Cheese Special?

Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese stands out for several reasons:

Rich and Creamy Texture: The recipe uses a combination of cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta, creating a luxuriously creamy sauce that perfectly coats each pasta piece.
Baked Perfection: Unlike stovetop versions, this mac and cheese is baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, bubbly top with a crispy breadcrumb or cheese crust. The contrast between the creamy interior and the crispy top is what makes this dish so delightful.
Simple and Classic Ingredients: This recipe sticks to the basics—cheese, butter, milk, eggs, and pasta—yet delivers maximum flavor, proving that simple ingredients often create the best dishes.
Versatility: Paula Deen’s mac and cheese can easily be customized with different types of cheese, spices, or add-ins like beef bacon, jalapeños, or even lobster for a gourmet twist.

Ingredients Needed for Paula Deen Mac and Cheese

To recreate this delicious Southern-style mac and cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups elbow macaroni: The traditional pasta choice for mac and cheese; its shape holds the cheese sauce well.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Provides a mild, creamy melt that complements the sharpness of cheddar.
1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese: Adds a smooth, velvety texture to the cheese sauce.
1/2 cup sour cream: Enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor that forms the base of the sauce.
3 cups whole milk: Helps create a creamy sauce and binds the ingredients together.
2 large eggs: Adds richness and helps set the casserole as it bakes.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice.
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder: Adds a slight tang and depth of flavor.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional): For a crunchy topping.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a savory, umami boost and helps create a crispy top.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Paula Deen Mac and Cheese

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart casserole dish or a baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the pasta since it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Velveeta cheese cubes. Mix well to distribute the cheeses evenly.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the milk and heat until warm (but not boiling). Remove from heat.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. Slowly add this mixture to the warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.

5. Combine Pasta, Cheese, and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture, tossing to combine. Pour the warm milk mixture over the pasta and cheese, stirring gently to coat all the pasta.

6. Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared casserole dish. If you like a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be melted, and the sauce should be creamy.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to set slightly. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for the Best Paula Deen Mac and Cheese

To ensure your Paula Deen Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. Grating cheese from a block will yield a smoother, creamier sauce.
Do Not Overcook the Pasta: The pasta should be slightly undercooked when it goes into the oven to avoid becoming mushy.
Customize Your Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère, smoked gouda, or pepper jack can add interesting flavors and textures.
Add a Crispy Topping: If you love a bit of crunch, don’t skip the breadcrumb topping. You can even use crushed crackers or fried onions for extra flavor.
Make Ahead and Freeze: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and frozen before baking. Simply cover tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Variations to Try with Paula Deen Mac and Cheese

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes:

Beef Bacon and Jalapeño Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits and sliced jalapeños for a smoky, spicy twist.
Lobster Mac and Cheese: Fold in chunks of cooked lobster meat for a luxurious, seafood twist. The sweet, tender lobster pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
Truffle Mac and Cheese: Drizzle truffle oil over the top before baking for an upscale, gourmet version.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Add steamed broccoli florets for a classic flavor combination that adds some green to your plate.
Four-Cheese Mac and Cheese: Incorporate a mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and Parmesan for an ultra-cheesy version.

Serving Suggestions for Paula Deen Mac and Cheese

Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many main dishes:

Fried Chicken: The creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a perfect side dish for crispy, juicy fried chicken.
Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers for a balanced meal.
Barbecue Ribs: The creamy texture and rich flavor of the mac and cheese complement the smoky, tangy taste of barbecue ribs.
Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Paula Deen Mac and Cheese

If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

To Store: Transfer the mac and cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To Reheat: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paula Deen Mac and Cheese

Can I use different pasta shapes? Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, shells, rotini, or cavatappi also work well.
Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or omit them altogether.
What are some other cheeses I can use? Consider adding Gruyère, fontina, or smoked gouda for additional depth and flavor.
Can I add vegetables? Yes, vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas can be added to enhance the nutritional value.
How do I get a creamy texture? Using a combination of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Velveeta, along with milk and sour cream, ensures a creamy texture.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy take on a classic comfort food that brings a touch of Southern charm to the table. With its perfect balance of creaminess and crunch, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite for family gatherings, potlucks, and holidays. The recipe is simple to make and can be customized to suit any taste, making it a versatile addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or the star of the meal, this mac and cheese will surely become a family favorite!

Paula Deen Mac and Cheese: A Southern Classic Comfort Food