Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy baked southern-style macaroni and cheese, a cheesy baked casserole and soul food classic.

I’ve lived in St. Louis for some time now, and as I’ve said before, it’s very “southern” here in terms of cooking.  One of our favorite soul food restaurants had the best mac and cheese, and that would be Sweetie Pie’s.  Miss Robie’s recipe is easily found on the web and the local paper has published a paired down recipe for the home cook.

I’m pretty sure the location we went to in The Grove neighborhood has closed and I don’t understand all the drama surrounding the closing.  It was the subject of a reality TV show at one point.  I just know we went often and always, always had her macaroni and cheese.

What is southern macaroni and cheese?

It’s basically a custard-style baked macaroni and cheese with eggs and evaporated milk.  This version uses three kinds of cheese and butter and a little sour cream.  It bakes up creamy but firm, hearty and filling and absolutely delicious.

It’s really easy, here’s how:

1. Cook and drain elbow macaroni and place in baking dish or pan.
2. Make the custard mixture by whisking together milk, evaporated milk and eggs and some seasoning, pour mixture over macaroni.
3. Add the butter, sour cream and three cheeses and stir to combine well.
4. Top with more grated cheese and bake until bubbly and top is browned.

Recipe Notes and Tips

• People swear by Velveeta in this recipe, do not use a substitute.  Miss Robie herself uses only Velveeta.
• While pre-packaged shredded cheese works fine, grating your own is the better option.  It just melts better.
• It’s going to be oily on top after baking, that’s how it is with real cheeses and butter.  If you think it’s excessive, blot some up with a paper towel while it rests.  I do sometimes.
• Reheats are great, just pop in the microwave.
• This is filling and hearty enough to serve as the main dish but most often it is a side dish.  It’s unbelievably good alongside collard greens and fried chicken!

Delicious soulful macaroni and cheese, doesn’t get any better than this.  A real treat and labor of love for Sunday supper and the holiday table.  Trust me on this one! Kelly

Ingredients

Read more on next page