Soul Food Mac & Cheese

Name: Soul Food Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 pound elbow macaroni; 4 cups milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Soul Food Mac & Cheese recipe. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this dish combines three types of cheese for a decadent, gooey experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect as a side for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this mac and cheese is a classic that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-02T09:50:33.064Z

This mac and cheese recipe is a cherished staple in many households, passed down through generations. It represents the heart of soul food cooking, bringing families together around the dinner table.

A Classic Comfort Food

Mac and cheese is a quintessential comfort food that transcends generations. This Soul Food version takes the classic recipe to new heights with a combination of rich cheeses and a creamy texture that makes it irresistible. Whether you're serving it as a side dish at a family gathering or as the star of a Sunday meal, this mac and cheese is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to the dinner table.

Comfort food often evokes feelings of nostalgia, reminding us of cozy family dinners and joyful celebrations. With every creamy bite of this Soul Food Mac & Cheese, you’ll be taken back to those cherished moments. It's the perfect dish to create new memories while honoring tradition, making it a must-have for both young and old alike.

The Cheese Factor

What sets this Soul Food Mac & Cheese apart is the dynamic blend of three different cheeses. Sharp cheddar offers bold flavor and a rich yellow hue, mozzarella provides a delightful stretchiness, and cream cheese brings an extra layer of creaminess that binds everything together. This trifecta ensures that every scoop is packed with cheesy goodness, making it an addictive addition to any meal.

When selecting your cheeses, quality matters. Opt for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged options whenever possible, as it melts more smoothly and enhances the overall texture of your dish. The combination of flavors will impress even the pickiest eaters, solidifying this recipe as a family favorite for years to come.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Soul Food Mac & Cheese is incredibly versatile. While it shines as a side dish for barbecue, fried chicken, or holiday feasts, it can also stand on its own as a comforting main course. Add in some cooked vegetables or proteins like bacon or chicken to create a complete meal that satisfies hunger and cravings alike.

Additionally, it's an excellent dish for meal prepping or potlucks. Prepare it ahead of time, and simply pop it in the oven when you need it. It re-heats beautifully, maintaining its creamy texture, allowing you to serve delicious comfort food with ease, no matter the occasion.

Ingredients

Cheese Mixture

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup cream cheese, softened

Pasta and Other Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Mix well and ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

Remove from heat and mix in the cheeses until melted and smooth.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfecting Your Mac & Cheese

To achieve the ultimate creamy mac and cheese, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream for extra richness. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Adding a hint of garlic powder or mustard can elevate the flavor profile even more, giving your dish a unique twist that guests will rave about.

During the baking process, you can create a crispy top by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter and some additional cheese, then sprinkling it over the macaroni before baking. This cheat not only adds texture but also enhances the visual appeal of your dish.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk can help restore some moisture while reheating, ensuring that the macaroni stays creamy and delicious.

If you want to prepare it in advance, you can assemble the mac and cheese and freeze it before baking. Just thaw before baking, and then follow the original instructions. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeks or unexpected guests – simply bake, and enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.