Delicious Southern Macaroni and Cheese Pie Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Southern macaroni and cheese pie recipe is a must-try. Beloved at Southern family dinners and social gatherings, this dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the nostalgia of traditional Southern cooking.
Yield: 8 Servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Ingredients for Southern Macaroni and Cheese Pie
- Cooking spray
- 2 cups uncooked pasta
- ½ cup butter
- 2 (12 ounce) cans evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pinch paprika, or to taste (Optional)
Instructions for Preparing Southern Macaroni and Cheese Pie
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt ½ cup of butter.
- Stir in two cans of evaporated milk into the melted butter, followed by 1 tablespoon of ground black pepper and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the 3 eggs lightly and add them to the milk and butter mixture, continuing to stir until everything is fully incorporated.
- Pour the milk, butter, and egg mixture over the cooked pasta in the pot. Add 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and combine thoroughly.
- Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of paprika for additional color and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown and set in the center.
Healthier Alternatives (Optional)
To enhance the nutritional value, you can swap out the regular elbow macaroni for whole-wheat pasta or protein-enriched pasta. These provide additional fiber and protein, making the dish more satisfying. Moreover, consider reducing the amount of cheddar cheese by half and use a low-fat cheese alternative to cut down on calories and saturated fat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Southern macaroni and cheese pie recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, it also delivers a creamy and cheesy flavor that is simply irresistible. Above all, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any gathering. In conclusion, whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a church social, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Try out this mouthwatering Southern macaroni cheese recipe today, and experience the authentic taste of Southern hospitality in your own home!
