Paula Deen Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Paula Deen’s baked mac and cheese is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that stands out for its blend of cheeses, buttery breadcrumb topping, and simple yet flavorful preparation. This article walks through who Paula Deen is, her unique take on mac and cheese, key ingredients, a step-by-step recipe, pro tips for enhancing flavor and texture, and great side dishes to serve with it.

Who is Paula Deen and why her mac and cheese stands out

Paula Deen is a well-known American chef, TV personality, and author famous for her Southern-style cooking.

Her recipes often feature rich, comforting flavors that remind people of home-cooked meals.

Paula Deen’s baked mac and cheese is a fan favorite because it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.

Unlike basic mac and cheese, her version includes a mix of sharp cheddar, Velveeta, and sometimes even cream cheese for extra richness.

She also adds a buttery breadcrumb topping for a crispy finish.

Her recipe is simple but delivers big on taste, making it a go-to for family dinners and gatherings.

Why her mac and cheese is special

• Uses a blend of cheeses for depth of flavor
• Includes a crispy breadcrumb topping
• Easy to follow, even for beginner cooks
• Perfect balance of creamy and cheesy textures

Paula Deen’s cooking style

She focuses on traditional Southern comfort food with a modern twist.

Her dishes are hearty, flavorful, and designed to bring people together.

Many of her recipes, including her baked mac and cheese, have become staples in American households.

Key ingredients for Paula Deen’s baked mac and cheese

Paula Deen’s baked mac and cheese relies on simple but flavorful ingredients to create its signature taste.

The dish combines creamy cheeses, tender pasta, and a crispy topping for the perfect balance.

Main ingredients

• Elbow macaroni – the classic pasta shape for mac and cheese
• Sharp cheddar cheese – adds a bold, tangy flavor
• Velveeta cheese – ensures extra creaminess
• Butter – used in both the sauce and topping
• Milk – creates a smooth, rich cheese sauce
• Eggs – help bind the dish and add richness
• Salt and pepper – for seasoning

Optional add-ins

• Cream cheese – for extra creaminess
• Sour cream – adds a slight tang
• Breadcrumbs – for a crispy topping
• Paprika or garlic powder – for added flavor

Step-by-step instructions to make the perfect dish

Follow these simple steps to create Paula Deen’s famous baked mac and cheese at home.

Prep the pasta

• Cook 2 cups of elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce

• In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Stir in ¼ cup of flour to create a roux.
• Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth.
• Add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup of cubed Velveeta.
• Stir until fully melted and creamy.

Combine and bake

• Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce.
• Stir in 2 beaten eggs for extra richness.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Top with buttery breadcrumbs for crunch.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips for extra creaminess and flavor in your mac and cheese

Want to take your baked mac and cheese to the next level? These tips will help you achieve the creamiest, most flavorful dish possible.

Boost creaminess

• Add 4 oz of cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness.
• Stir in ½ cup of sour cream for a tangy, smooth texture.
• Use whole milk instead of skim for a thicker sauce.
• Mix in a splash of heavy cream before baking.

Enhance flavor

• Swap half the cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
• Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder or mustard powder.
• Top with crispy bacon bits before serving.
• Stir in cooked, crumbled sausage for a hearty twist.

Perfect the texture

• Undercook pasta by 1 minute to avoid mushiness.
• Let the dish rest 5 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
• Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter for a crispier topping.
• Bake until edges are golden but center is still gooey.

Serving suggestions and best sides to pair with it

Paula Deen’s baked mac and cheese is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a full, satisfying meal.

Classic Southern sides

• Collard greens – A staple in Southern cooking, their slight bitterness balances the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Cornbread – Sweet, crumbly cornbread complements the creamy dish perfectly.
• Fried chicken – A crispy, savory contrast to the cheesy pasta.
• Baked beans – Smoky and sweet, they add heartiness to the meal.

Lighter options

• Green salad – A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
• Steamed broccoli – Adds a healthy, crunchy element.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts – Their caramelized flavor pairs well with the cheesy dish.

Comfort food pairings

• Garlic bread – A buttery, crispy side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Mashed potatoes – For the ultimate comfort food combo.
• Grilled sausages – Adds a smoky, meaty component.

For a complete meal, serve with a protein like fried chicken or grilled sausages and a veggie side like collard greens or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Don’t forget a refreshing drink like sweet tea or lemonade to round out the meal.