If you want true comfort food, the Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe is the best choice. This Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe is creamy, rich, and full of southern charm.
You will love how this Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe brings everyone together at the dinner table. It is easy to make and tastes like a warm hug for your soul.
There is nothing quite like a homemade casserole. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering. The kitchen smelled like melting cheese and butter.
Every person asked for the recipe before they left. It is a classic dish that never goes out of style. It is perfect for holidays or a cozy Sunday night when you need something special.
What Makes This Mac And Cheese Casserole Special
This recipe stands out because it uses a unique blend of ingredients. Most recipes use a simple flour roux to thicken things up. This version uses eggs and sour cream for a custard-like texture instead.
It is much creamier than any standard boxed mac and cheese you can buy. The sharp cheddar gives it a bold and tangy flavor. It stays moist even after baking in the hot oven. It is the ultimate soul food for any cheese lover.
Equipment List
- Large stockpot for boiling the pasta.
- Colander for draining the water.
- Large mixing bowl for the sauce.
- Whisk or wooden spoon for mixing.
- 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Cheese grater for fresh cheese.
Recipe Overview (Without Table)
- Recipe Name: Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole.
- Servings: 8 People.
- Prep Time: 15 mins.
- Cook Time: 40 mins.
- Total Time: 55 mins.
- Course: Side Dish / Main Course.
- Cuisine: Southern American.
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving.
Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe
- 4 cups cooked elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry pasta).
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (grate it yourself).
- 3 large eggs, beaten well.
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt.
- 1 cup whole milk for richness.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease your 9×13 baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures the cheese does not stick to the sides while baking. A well-greased pan makes cleanup much easier later on.
2. Boil the Macaroni
Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water. Drain the pasta when it is slightly firm to the bite. Do not overcook it until it is mushy. The pasta will finish softening inside the oven with the sauce.
3. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, mix the beaten eggs and sour cream. Add the melted butter and salt to the mixture. Whisk everything until the base is smooth and well combined. This mixture creates the signature creamy texture.
4. Combine Milk and Cheese
Stir the whole milk into the egg mixture slowly. Add most of the grated cheddar cheese into the bowl. Save a small handful of cheese to sprinkle on top at the end. This creates a beautiful crust.
5. Add the Pasta
Fold the cooked macaroni into the creamy cheese sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated well. The sauce should look thick and very yellow from the cheese. It will smell amazing already.
6. Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole when the top is golden brown. Let it sit for five minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set so it is not too runny when you scoop it out.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Always grate your own cheese from a block for better melting.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a tiny hidden kick.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier taste.
- Top with buttery ritz crackers for extra southern crunch.
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing them.
- Do not skip the salt in the pasta water for flavor.
- Try adding cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor twist.
Interesting Facts About Mac And Cheese Casserole
Did you know Mac and cheese was a favorite of Thomas Jefferson? He served it at many fancy state dinners long ago. This dish became popular in the South because it was filling and affordable.
Paula Deen made it famous globally by adding her signature extra richness. It is now a staple of Southern hospitality and love. Many families have their own secret version passed down for many years.
Perfect Dishes to Serve With Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe
This casserole is very filling on its own for lunch. However, it pairs perfectly with fried chicken or slow-cooked meatloaf. I love serving it with a side of buttery green beans.
The crisp vegetables balance the heavy cheese perfectly. A simple garden salad with vinaigrette is also a great choice. It is the perfect side dish for any backyard barbecue or holiday feast with family.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Keep it in the refrigerator to stay fresh and safe.
- Reheat in the oven at 300 degrees to keep it creamy.
- Add a splash of milk before reheating in the microwave.
- You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before you decide to reheat it.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient Type | Amount Per Serving |
| Total Protein | 18g |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Total Sugar | 4g |
| Calcium | 25% DV |
Health Benefits
While this is a decadent treat, it does offer some benefits. Cheese is a great source of calcium and protein for bones. Eggs provide essential vitamins like B12 and healthy fats for your brain.
Using real butter instead of processed oils is better for natural flavor. It is a high-energy meal that keeps you full for a long time. Enjoying this in moderation is part of a balanced lifestyle. It provides comfort which is great for your mental happiness and well-being.
FAQs about Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe
Can I use a different type of pasta for this? Yes, you can use penne or shells if you prefer. However, elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for this dish. It holds the cheese sauce inside the hollow tubes very well for the best bite.
How to make Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe ahead of time? You can assemble the dish a day early and keep it cold. Keep it covered in the fridge until you are ready. Bake it when you are ready to eat, but add five extra minutes.
What are the best ingredients for Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe? High-quality sharp cheddar and whole milk are the two key items. They provide the best flavor profile and creaminess. Do not use low-fat milk as the sauce will be too thin and watery.
Why is my baked mac and cheese coming out dry? You might have overcooked the pasta before baking it in the oven. Or, the oven temperature was too high for too long. Always ensure there is plenty of milk and sour cream.
Final Thoughts
This Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser for any age. It is simple to make and tastes absolutely amazing every time.
Your family will love the creamy texture and rich cheese flavor. I hope you enjoy making this southern classic in your own kitchen today. Happy cooking and enjoy every single cheesy bite of this wonderful dish!
Paula Deen Mac And Cheese Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked elbow macaroni about 2 cups dry pasta.
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese grate it yourself.
- 3 large eggs beaten well.
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt.
- 1 cup whole milk for richness.
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
- Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease your 9×13 baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures the cheese does not stick to the sides while baking. A well-greased pan makes cleanup much easier later on.
Boil the Macaroni
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water. Drain the pasta when it is slightly firm to the bite. Do not overcook it until it is mushy. The pasta will finish softening inside the oven with the sauce.
Mix the Base
- In a large bowl, mix the beaten eggs and sour cream. Add the melted butter and salt to the mixture. Whisk everything until the base is smooth and well combined. This mixture creates the signature creamy texture.
Combine Milk and Cheese
- Stir the whole milk into the egg mixture slowly. Add most of the grated cheddar cheese into the bowl. Save a small handful of cheese to sprinkle on top at the end. This creates a beautiful crust.
Add the Pasta
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the creamy cheese sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated well. The sauce should look thick and very yellow from the cheese. It will smell amazing already.
Bake the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly.
Cool and Serve
- Remove the casserole when the top is golden brown. Let it sit for five minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set so it is not too runny when you scoop it out.
Notes
- Always grate your own cheese from a block for better melting.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a tiny hidden kick.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier taste.
- Top with buttery ritz crackers for extra southern crunch.
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing them.
- Do not skip the salt in the pasta water for flavor.
- Try adding cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor twist.
Emily Carter is a passionate home cook and recipe creator. She shares easy, family-friendly meals with a modern twist. Her focus is on simple ingredients, clear steps and soulful, delicious food that everyone can enjoy.