Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with my tried-and-true recipe for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese. This Southern-inspired dish is a symphony of cheesy goodness and mouthwatering flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. From the custard-like texture to the rich, indulgent taste, this baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
There is a scorching topic that is ALWAYS up for debate, especially when it comes to Holiday get-togethers.
Are you ready for it…who will bring or make the Mac and Cheese? Am I right!? This side dish is the top-notch of all sides and honestly the Main Event (side dish edition).
Some people are very particular about the type of Mac and Cheese they eat, my sister and nieces being a few of them. It must say something when your 8-year-old niece requests you make Mac and Cheese for every Holiday, and sometimes just because, I mean who can say no to comfort food? With the Holiday season practically here, there is no better time to secure your name as the designated Mac and Cheesemaker for your next festive feast.
So if you are ready to say goodbye to the uninspiring blue boxed versions or microwavable trays…get your apron and cheese grater ready, and your oven preheated!
Prep: 15 minutes Bake: 55-60 minutes Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 10
Ingredients:
1 box of elbow macaroni, cooked per instructions on the box
13×9 inch baking dish
16 finely crushed saltine crackers
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (Block cheese is preferred, shredded)
8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese (Block cheese is preferred, shredded)
6 large eggs, lightly beaten
4 cups of whole milk
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees
Cook the macaroni, drain, and set aside
Grease the 13×9 inch baking dish (if I am going somewhere I usually use the throwaway dishes by Reynolds or grab one at your local Dollar Store)
Layer 1/3 of macaroni, crackers, salt, pepper, and cheese into the dish. Repeat the layers twice
Whisk the eggs and the milk together and pour over the macaroni mixture Carefully place in the oven for 55- 60 minutes, or until golden brown and set. Let set for 10 minutes before serving.
*tips & links*
To save time I usually will shred the cheese the night before, onto a sheet of parchment paper, then store it in an air-tight container overnight.
I use my Ninja food processor to crush the saltines, then I mix the salt, pepper, and crackers into a bowl, so that way everything is evenly distributed.
My pot and pan set is from Sam’s Club. It is an 11pc set for such a great price! Plus it comes in so many color options!
Leave a comment below if you make this and your thoughts and be sure to tag me @everydayashleighjade on social media!
