Mac and cheese is a staple comfort food that has countless variations, but none quite as satisfying as Paula Deen’s signature recipe. Known for her down-home Southern cooking, Paula Deen’s mac and cheese recipe combines rich, creamy cheese with a comforting custard-like texture, thanks to the use of eggs. This dish is made with a blend of cheddar, American, and cream cheese, giving it a velvety smooth consistency. Whether you bake it in the oven, cook it in a Crock Pot, or prepare it ahead of time, this mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or just a simple, cozy night in. With its creamy texture, a little kick of cayenne, and a crisp golden top (if you choose), it’s no wonder this dish is beloved by many.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Creamy, Cheesy Perfection
This recipe uses three types of cheese—cheddar, American, and cream cheese—which gives it an incredibly rich and smooth texture.
2. Versatile Cooking Methods
You can make this dish using the oven, Crock Pot, or even ahead of time, making it adaptable for any schedule or occasion.
3. Southern Comfort Food
The use of eggs for a custard-like texture gives the mac and cheese a unique Southern flavor that sets it apart from other recipes.
4. Great for Feeding a Crowd
This mac and cheese is perfect for gatherings or family meals, and it’s easy to scale up if you’re feeding a larger group.
5. Optional Topping for Extra Crunch
The recipe offers an optional Ritz cracker topping, adding an irresistible crunch to the creamy dish.
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: Add more cayenne pepper or even a few chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Vegetarian Mac and Cheese: Skip the bacon and load up on veggies like roasted bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Mac and Cheese: Replace the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese, dairy-free butter, and non-dairy milk.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, half and half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper until fully combined.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Return the cooked macaroni to the pot and add the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and American cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and the pasta is coated with the mixture.
Step 4: Combine with Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture over the macaroni and cheese and stir to combine everything thoroughly.
Step 5: Bake (Oven Method)
Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Crock Pot Method
For the Crock Pot, cook the macaroni 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Follow the same steps to prepare the egg mixture and add the cheeses. After combining everything, transfer the mixture to a greased Crock Pot. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, then switch to warm.
Step 7: Make Ahead Method
For a make-ahead option, cook the pasta and rinse with cold water. Prepare the sauce in a saucepan and whisk until smooth. Allow it to cool to warm before combining it with the macaroni. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, then bake or cook in the Crock Pot when ready to serve.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Be sure not to overcook the macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the oven or Crock Pot.
- If you’re using the oven method, make sure to let the mac and cheese sit for 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to set.
- If you’re using the Crock Pot, avoid opening the lid too often to maintain the proper cooking temperature.
- For a creamier texture, add a bit more half and half or sour cream to the mixture.
- If you like a crispy topping, use the optional Ritz cracker topping and bake for the last 10 minutes.
How to Serve
Paula Deen’s mac and cheese is perfect as a side dish for Southern-style fried chicken, barbecue, or roasted meats. It also works well as a main course, especially when paired with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a homemade cornbread or biscuits.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This mac and cheese doesn’t freeze well due to the texture of the cheeses and the egg mixture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You may need to add a splash of half and half or milk to restore the creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I make Paula Deen’s mac and cheese without eggs?
Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute a roux for the eggs to thicken the sauce. Check the recipe for the roux method.
2. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking or cooking in the Crock Pot.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh jalapeños for a spicy twist.
4. Can I make this recipe without using a Crock Pot?
Yes, you can use the oven method, which will give you a golden, bubbly top.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap the American cheese or cheddar with other varieties, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change slightly.
6. How do I prevent the macaroni from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta until just al dente, and avoid overcooking it in the oven or Crock Pot.
7. Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
It is not recommended to freeze this mac and cheese, as the texture may change when reheated.
8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free alternatives like plant-based butter, milk, and vegan cheese.
9. How can I make the mac and cheese more creamy?
Add extra sour cream or half and half to create a creamier consistency.
10. Can I add meat to this mac and cheese?
Yes, adding cooked bacon, sausage, or ground beef can give this dish extra flavor and richness.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese recipe is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it in the oven, using a Crock Pot, or making it ahead of time, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with a Southern flair. With a few simple ingredients and some optional variations, you can create a dish that will become a new family favorite. Enjoy the creamy texture, rich flavor, and crispy topping—it’s comfort food at its finest!
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Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes (Oven Method) 2-3 hours (Crock Pot Method)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This rich and creamy mac and cheese is a Southern favorite, blending three kinds of cheese and a smooth custard-like texture from eggs. It can be made in the oven, crock pot, or ahead of time, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- 2 cups American cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Optional topping: 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers, 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Oven Baked Method:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, half and half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until fully combined.
- Drain macaroni and return to pot. Add cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and American cheese. Stir to combine.
- Add the egg mixture to the pasta and stir to combine.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13 casserole dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until set.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Crock Pot Method:
- Cook macaroni 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions, then drain.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, half and half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Whisk until fully combined.
- Drain macaroni and return to pot. Add cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and American cheese. Stir to combine.
- Add the egg mixture to the pasta and stir to combine.
- Transfer to a greased Crock Pot and heat on low for 2-3 hours, then switch to warm. Stir occasionally.
Make-Ahead Method:
- Cook pasta until al dente, then rinse with cold water.
- In a saucepan, combine the remaining ingredients and whisk over medium heat until smooth. Let it cool until warm.
- Combine the cooled macaroni and sauce. Store in the fridge for up to two days.
- To finish, transfer to a casserole dish or Crock Pot and cook according to your chosen method.
Optional Topping:
- Combine 1 cup of crushed Ritz crackers and 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Bake on top of the mac and cheese for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes (Oven Method) 2-3 hours (Crock Pot Method) 10 minutes (Optional topping)
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking, Crock Pot
- Cuisine: Southern