Get ready to indulge in a comforting classic: creamy baked macaroni and cheese! This beloved dish is a staple for many, and when done right, it’s hard to beat. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering recipes inspired by the queen of Southern cooking herself, Paula Deen. From sharp cheddar to caramelized onions, and from Velveeta to lobster, these creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic comfort food or looking to spice things up with some bold new flavors, we’ve got you covered. So grab a fork, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of creamy baked macaroni and cheese, Paula Deen style!
Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Sharp Cheddar
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the richness of sharp cheddar cheese with the creamy goodness of baked macaroni. This Southern-style dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional sharp cheddar cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni and cheese are heated through.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Paula Deen’s Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
Paula Deen’s Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
This Southern comfort food classic is a staple at any gathering, and for good reason – it’s creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll be enjoying a warm, golden-brown casserole in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Colby cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Colby cheese until melted and smooth. Add paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Extra Cheesy Baked Macaroni with Velveeta
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy baked macaroni dish loaded with Velveeta. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup Velveeta, cubed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, Velveeta, and melted butter. Stir over medium heat until Velveeta is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buttery Breadcrumb Topped Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this rich and satisfying recipe. A crunchy buttery breadcrumb topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, whisking until smooth.
5. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon and Jalapeños
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy, and smoky macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Add cooked bacon, jalapeños, milk, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture and stir until fully coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni with Parmesan Crust
Elevate the classic mac and cheese game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines three types of cheese, a crispy parmesan crust, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with melted butter and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese for the crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown and macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paula Deen’s Baked Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese
This classic comfort food gets a rich and creamy twist with the addition of cream cheese to the macaroni and cheese mixture. The result is a velvety, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add softened cream cheese, milk, and melted butter to the cheese mixture. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Heavy Cream
Elevate your mac ‘n cheese game with this rich and creamy slow-baked recipe, featuring the addition of heavy cream for an indulgent twist.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the macaroni mixture.
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently to combine.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until top is golden brown and sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Lobster
Elevate a classic comfort food with a luxurious twist – Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Lobster! This rich and creamy dish is perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (about 6 oz), diced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add melted butter, lobster meat, and heavy cream to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese and lobster mixture. Mix until coated evenly.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Baked Mac and Cheese with Pepper Jack
Elevate your mac and cheese game with the bold flavor of pepper jack cheese and a kick of heat from diced jalapeños. This creamy, spicy dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and pepper jack cheese until melted. Add diced jalapeños and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
Baked macaroni and cheese is a comforting classic, but adding caramelized onions takes it to the next level. This recipe combines creamy pasta with sweet, savory, and slightly crispy onions for a delightful twist.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium-low until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and cheesy sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Paula Deen’s Baked Mac and Cheese with Sour Cream
Classic comfort food gets a creamy twist with Paula Deen’s Baked Mac and Cheese with Sour Cream! This indulgent dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
6. Pour in the sour cream mixture and mix until smooth.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Garlic Butter Breadcrumbs
A comforting classic gets a delicious upgrade with the addition of crispy garlic butter breadcrumbs on top.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup garlic butter breadcrumbs (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with garlic butter breadcrumbs (see note).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Note: To make garlic butter breadcrumbs, mix 1/4 cup softened butter with 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and golden.
Baked Mac and Cheese with Smoked Gouda
Elevate the classic comfort food by incorporating smoky flavors from smoked gouda into a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and smoked Gouda cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Paula Deen’s Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Evaporated Milk
This classic Southern recipe is a twist on the traditional mac ‘n cheese, featuring evaporated milk for an added layer of creaminess. With its golden-brown crust and gooey center, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup evaporated milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, evaporated milk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mac ‘n cheese to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Prosciutto
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying baked macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with crispy prosciutto for a salty, savory contrast.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar, Gruyère, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add melted butter and cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with chopped prosciutto.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional prosciutto if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Roasted Red Peppers
Elevate the classic comfort food by adding sweet and smoky roasted red peppers to a creamy baked macaroni and cheese dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note)
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and roasted red peppers. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Note: To roast red peppers, preheat oven to 425°F. Place 2-3 red bell peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred. Let cool, then peel off skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into strips.
Paula Deen’s Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Mustard Twist
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and tangy twist on a classic. A hint of mustard adds a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, cheese, garlic, and mustard. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy, cheesy goodness with these 18 baked macaroni and cheese recipes inspired by Paula Deen. From classic combinations like sharp cheddar and buttery breadcrumbs to bold twists featuring lobster or spicy pepper jack, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to elevate this comfort food staple with the likes of caramelized onions, crispy prosciutto, and roasted red peppers. Whether you’re a Southern food fan or just looking for a new take on an old favorite, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
