The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned growing up on the sunny island of Crete, it’s that food is love. My grandmother taught me that every dish carries a story, a memory, and a sprinkle of heart. While I grew up surrounded by olive groves and feta cheese, my love for comfort food led me to explore dishes from around the world and that’s how I fell in love with Macaroni and Cheese Southern Style.
I still remember the first time I tried it during a trip to the U.S. A lovely woman from Georgia invited me to her home for Sunday lunch. She served this bubbling golden dish straight from the oven, the cheese stretching as she scooped it onto my plate. I took one bite and instantly felt at home. It was creamy, cheesy, slightly smoky, and perfectly seasoned. It reminded me so much of my grandmother’s baked pasta simple ingredients, big flavor, and pure comfort.
Now, I’ve brought that Southern charm into my own kitchen here in Crete. My version of Macaroni and Cheese Southern Style combines the best of both worlds Greek richness with Southern soul. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just craving something cozy after a long day.
If you’re ready for creamy, baked perfection with a golden crust and flavors that melt your heart, this recipe is for you. Grab your whisk, your favorite cheese blend, and let’s make the ultimate Southern-Style Mac and Cheese together!
Ingredients You’ll Need 🧀
Serves 6–8 people
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for that Southern twist)
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Step-by-Step Directions 👩🍳
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook it just until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking until the sauce thickens.
3. Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1½ cups cheddar, Colby Jack, and Monterey Jack cheeses. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
4. Add Eggs and Sour Cream
In a small bowl, whisk the beaten eggs with a spoonful of warm cheese sauce to temper them. Stir the mixture into the sauce along with the sour cream. This step gives your Macaroni and Cheese Southern Style that rich, custard-like texture Southerners love.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the cooked macaroni into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Add the cheese sauce and gently mix until every noodle is coated.
6. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top. If you like a little crunch, mix the breadcrumbs with a teaspoon of melted butter and sprinkle them over the cheese layer.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let It Rest
Allow your Southern-style macaroni and cheese to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set beautifully for perfect slices.
Serving Suggestions 🍽
This creamy, cheesy delight pairs beautifully with:
- Southern fried chicken or BBQ ribs 🍗
- Collard greens or green beans 🥬
- A fresh tomato salad 🍅
- Or simply enjoy it on its own with a warm slice of cornbread! 🌽
When serving, I love sprinkling a little extra smoked paprika or chopped parsley on top for color. It looks gorgeous on the table like sunshine baked into every bite.
Notes & Tips 📝
- Cheese choices: Feel free to mix in Gruyère, Gouda, or Fontina for extra flavor depth.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
- Add-ins: Crumbled bacon, caramelized onions, or jalapeños bring new layers of flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Nutrition (per serving) 🍴
- Calories: 510
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
Recipe Card 🧾
⏱ Time: 15 min prep + 30 min bake = 45 minutes total
🧂 Ingredients: Macaroni, butter, milk, cream, eggs, sour cream, cheese blend, spices, breadcrumbs
👩🍳 Instructions: Boil pasta → Make roux → Add milk & cheese → Mix pasta & sauce → Top with cheese & crumbs → Bake golden
📝 Notes: Add bacon or jalapeños for a twist, and let it rest before serving
🍽 Nutrition: 510 calories per serving
Conclusion 🌻
Cooking Macaroni and Cheese Southern Style brings that nostalgic, comforting magic we all crave. From my kitchen in Crete to yours, I hope this dish reminds you that food connects us across oceans, cultures, and memories. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy weekend treat, or a potluck, it’s sure to be the star of the table.
So preheat your oven, grab that whisk, and get ready to enjoy a Southern classic made with Greek love. 💛
100-Word Version
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete! I grew up learning to cook from my grandmother, and I believe every dish tells a story. My Macaroni and Cheese Southern Style recipe is my take on true comfort food creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. Inspired by a Southern friend’s Sunday meal, I brought this recipe home to Greece. It’s simple yet rich, made with cheddar, cream, and love. Whether you serve it at family dinners or cozy weekends, this dish brings warmth, joy, and the perfect mix of Southern comfort and Mediterranean heart.