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A bowl of creamy Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese Recipe with a golden crispy topping, served with collard greens and cornbread.

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese Recipe

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese Recipe is a Southern comfort food classic, known for its rich, creamy texture and crispy, golden topping. This step-by-step guide will show you how to make this beloved dish at home, using a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for the perfect balance of flavor and creaminess.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course comfort food, Main Course, soul food
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Large Pot
  • Whisk
  • Large mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for added flavor
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional, for extra crunch

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, bringing to a simmer. Slowly add cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Temper the eggs by mixing a small amount of the hot sauce into the eggs, then stir the egg mixture into the sauce. Continue cooking until thickened.
  • Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
  • Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, if using.
  • Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
  • Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just bake it right before serving!
  • For a spicier version, add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
  • For extra richness, you can mix in a bit of American cheese or use extra heavy cream.
Keyword baked mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, comfort food, Southern mac and cheese, Sweetie Pie's