Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese recipe is a classic Southern comfort food that brings a rich, creamy, and decadent flavor to the table. With a blend of three types of cheese—cheddar, American, and cream cheese—this dish is a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that will become your new favorite. The addition of sour cream, eggs, and a bit of cayenne pepper creates the perfect custard-like consistency, making every bite smooth and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing it in the oven or in the Crock Pot, this mac and cheese is bound to be a hit at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese so irresistible is its rich, indulgent flavor and creamy texture. The combination of cheddar, American, and cream cheese gives it the perfect cheese pull, while the eggs create a velvety custard that holds everything together beautifully. The addition of sour cream makes the dish extra creamy, and a pinch of cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of heat to balance out the richness. With both oven-baked and Crock Pot methods available, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize for your needs. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as the main event, Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni
- Unsalted butter
- Half and half
- Eggs
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese
- American cheese
- Cream cheese
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
- Pepper
Variations
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: For those who love a bit of heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Extra Creamy: Substitute some of the half and half with heavy cream for an even richer and creamier texture.
- Meat Lovers: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or ground beef for a hearty, protein-packed version.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and load up on vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian version.
How to Make the Recipe
Oven Baked Method
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, half and half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Cheese and Pasta
Return the drained macaroni to the pot. Add cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and American cheese to the pot and stir until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture over the macaroni and cheese and stir until everything is combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Crock Pot Method
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Cook the macaroni for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, half and half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Step 3: Combine Cheese and Pasta
Add the drained macaroni to the pot and stir in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and American cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Cook in the Crock Pot
Transfer the mixture to a greased Crock Pot and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally and switch to warm when done.
Make Ahead Method
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Cook the macaroni until al dente, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan, whisk together melted butter, half and half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper over medium heat until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Combine the Macaroni and Sauce
Mix the cooled macaroni with the sauce, then store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to cook, transfer to a casserole dish or Crock Pot and follow the original instructions.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the cheese sauce. Grate your own cheese for the best results.
- Let it sit after baking: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and the dish firm up.
- Add a crispy topping: For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
How to Serve
Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese is the perfect side dish to complement a variety of meals. Serve it alongside roast chicken, steak, or BBQ for a hearty family dinner. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or holiday gatherings. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or some sautéed vegetables.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a bit of milk to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
This mac and cheese doesn’t freeze well due to its creamy consistency, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.
Reheating
Reheat leftover mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or provolone, but keep in mind it will change the flavor.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
- Can I freeze Paula Deen’s mac and cheese? While it doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze it if needed, though the texture may be affected once reheated.
- Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes! The Crock Pot method is a great way to make this recipe for a hands-off cooking experience.
- Can I add meat to this mac and cheese? Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, sausage, or chicken for a heartier version.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) with a bit of milk to restore creaminess.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use other types of pasta like penne, shells, or rotini, but elbow macaroni is traditional for this dish.
- How do I know when the mac and cheese is done baking? The mac and cheese should be golden and bubbling around the edges. It should also have a custard-like consistency in the center.
- Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or roasted peppers to add flavor and nutrition.
- Can I skip the eggs in the recipe? Yes, you can make a roux (a flour and butter mixture) instead of using eggs for a creamy texture if you prefer.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese, rich flavors, and a custard-like texture. Whether you prepare it in the oven, Crock Pot, or as a make-ahead dish, it’s easy to make and guaranteed to please any crowd. With its smooth, cheesy sauce and irresistible flavor, this mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite!
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Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that blends cheddar, American, and cream cheese for an irresistibly cheesy flavor. With the option of preparing it in the oven, slow cooker, or making it ahead of time, this mac and cheese is versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni (about 1 pound)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup American cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Oven Baked Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter, half-and-half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Add cream cheese, cheddar, and American cheese. Stir to combine.
- Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Crock Pot Method:
- Cook the macaroni 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter, half-and-half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Whisk until smooth.
- Return the macaroni to the pot, then add cream cheese, cheddar, and American cheese. Stir to combine.
- Add the egg mixture to the macaroni and stir until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer to a greased Crock Pot and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally.
- Once cooked, switch the Crock Pot to the warm setting and serve.
Make-Ahead Method:
- Cook the macaroni until al dente, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a saucepan, combine the remaining ingredients (butter, half-and-half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne). Whisk over medium heat until smooth and warm.
- Once the sauce has cooled slightly, combine it with the cooled macaroni. Store in the fridge for up to two days.
- When ready to cook, transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish or Crock Pot and follow the oven or Crock Pot instructions to heat through.
Using Eggs in Macaroni and Cheese:
- Southern-style mac and cheese often uses eggs to create a custard-like consistency, replacing the need for a roux. If you prefer a roux, follow the alternative instructions below.
To Skip Eggs and Use a Roux:
- Use 2 cups of half-and-half.
- Melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in a saucepan, then add 3 tablespoons flour to make a paste.
- Slowly add 1/2 cup of half-and-half, whisking continuously. Gradually add the remaining half-and-half.
- Heat the mixture, whisking occasionally, for about 10 minutes until it thickens.
- Remove from heat, combine with other ingredients, and bake as instructed.
Optional Topping:
- Combine 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers and 2 tablespoons melted butter.
- Sprinkle over the top of the casserole and bake for the last 10 minutes to add a crunchy topping.
Notes
- Substitutions: Use salted butter if you prefer a slightly salty flavor and skip the added salt.
- Make it Spicy: Add extra cayenne pepper for more heat.
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, feel free to add a little more cream cheese or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked, Crock Pot
- Cuisine: Southern, American