Paula Deen’s Macaroni and Cheese

This creamy baked macaroni and cheese combines rich flavors with a cheesy, comforting texture. Made with simple ingredients like cheddar, American cheese, and cream cheese, it’s a family favorite for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight meals. Whether prepared in the oven or a Crock Pot, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (not a pound)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened or melted (equal to 1/2 stick)
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 8 oz. cheddar cheese, grated
• 13 slices American cheese, cut into cubes (Velveeta packaged slices work well, equal to 8 oz.)
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened

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Instructions

Oven-Baked Method

1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure the butter, half-and-half, sour cream, and cheeses are at room temperature before starting.
2. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F.
3. Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and return to the warm pot.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the melted/softened butter, half-and-half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). The mixture may appear slightly lumpy.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cream cheese, grated cheddar, and cubed American cheese to the drained macaroni. Stir with a silicone spatula until combined.
6. Assemble: Stir the wet mixture into the macaroni and cheese. Alternatively, pour the wet mixture over the macaroni once it’s in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
7. Bake: Transfer to the prepared casserole dish and bake for 40-45 minutes. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Crock Pot Method

1. Cook Pasta: Boil the macaroni for 1-2 minutes less than package instructions to prevent it from becoming mushy. Drain and return to the warm pot.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the melted/softened butter, half-and-half, eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). The mixture may appear slightly lumpy.
3. Combine with Pasta: Add the cream cheese, grated cheddar, and cubed American cheese to the drained macaroni. Stir with a silicone spatula until combined.
4. Assemble in Crock Pot: Stir the wet mixture into the macaroni and transfer to a lightly greased Crock Pot.
5. Cook: Heat on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. Switch to warm when ready to serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic macaroni and cheese recipe delivers rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food with minimal effort. Whether baked in the oven or prepared in a Crock Pot, it’s a family favorite perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals.

Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are close to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Macaroni Texture: Avoid overcooking the macaroni to maintain a firm texture.
• Cheese Blend: Use a mix of sharp cheddar and mild American cheese for a balanced flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or diced ham for a heartier dish.
• Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Colby cheese.
• Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free elbow pasta and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the bake time if chilled.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store cooled macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I skip the eggs?
The eggs help bind the dish and create a custard-like texture, but you can omit them for a looser consistency.

Serving

Serve this macaroni and cheese as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, fried chicken, or a fresh salad.

Suggestions

This dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or weeknight meals. Consider garnishing with breadcrumbs or fresh herbs for added texture and flavor.