A classic Southern-style mac and cheese with a golden, cheesy crust and a velvety, baked-in-the-oven center. The kind you crave when only the real deal will do.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream (for richness)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp mustard powder or a splash of hot sauce (optional for depth)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Colby Jack cheese
- Optional topping: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter