Soul Food Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Soul Food Macaroni and Cheese made with 6 different cheeses. No Velveeta, no eggs required.
Soul Food Macaroni and Cheese made with 6 different cheeses. No Velveeta, no eggs required.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 8 cups water
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour
- 1 tsp seasoning salt or plain salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 lb elbow macaroni pasta (uncooked)
- 1 tsp salt (to salt the water for the pasta)
- 1 1/2 cup half & half
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (not margarine)
- 8 oz gouda cheese (shredded or cubed)
- 8 oz creamy havarti cheese (shredded or cubed)
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz colby jack cheese (shredded)
- Carbohydrate 7.05592919246296 g
- Cholesterol 27.162870164 mg
- Fat 7.75662592842306 g
- Fiber 0.14841100597896 g
- Protein 4.36071621186477 g
- Saturated Fat 4.52031169005559 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (390g)
- Sodium 97.8531972987439 mg
- Sugar 6.907518186484 g
- Trans Fat 0.760098477617477 g
- Calories 114 calories
Step-by-step
- Pour 8 cups of water into a pot, and sprinkle in 1 tsp of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil, over high heat, then add in the elbow macaroni pasta.
- Cook the pasta until it is al dente (cooked but still firm), then drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water.
- Place a large sauce pan over medium heat, then toss in 4 tbsp of butter.
- Melt the butter down completely, then sprinkle in 2 tbsp of flour.
- Whisk the ingredients until they are well incorporated, then pour in the evaporated milk and half & half.
- Whisk the ingredients, and continue to cook it over medium heat for about 3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add in the cream cheese, gouda, and havarti.
- Stir the mixture until the cheese melts, and you have a nice creamy cheese sauce.
- Sprinkle in the seasoning salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until well incorporated.
- Toss the macaroni pasta into a large pot, and pour in the cheese sauce.
- Stir everything until it is well combined, then pour half of the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9 x 13 bake dish.
- Sprinkle some of the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and colby jack on top of the mac and cheese.
- Next add the remaining macaroni and cheese into the bake dish, and top it off with the remaining cheese.
- Bake the macaroni and cheese, in a preheated oven, on 350 F for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
My Go-To Soul Food Mac and Cheese
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and comforting meals can sometimes feel like a marathon. But let me tell you, this Soul Food Macaroni and Cheese recipe is my secret weapon. It’s rich, creamy, and unbelievably satisfying, yet surprisingly easy to make, even on a weeknight. The six different cheeses create a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more. Forget the boxed stuff; this homemade version is a game-changer. I love how the sharp cheddar and creamy havarti balance each other perfectly, creating a complex depth of flavour that's both comforting and exciting. The creamy texture is simply divine, and it's the perfect side dish for any occasion - or even a meal in itself!
This recipe isn’t just about taste; it’s about nostalgia. It reminds me of family gatherings, cozy nights in, and the feeling of being truly nourished, body and soul. It's the kind of food that warms you from the inside out. The aroma alone is enough to transport you back to simpler times. And honestly, the best part is seeing my family’s faces light up when I bring this dish to the table. Their happy smiles are the ultimate reward for a little time spent in the kitchen. This isn't just a meal, it’s a memory in the making, a tradition passed down, a simple act of love.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses – the possibilities are endless! Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Prefer a smoother sauce? Use a little more milk. This recipe is a blank canvas, waiting for your personal culinary touch. Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own! I've even been known to add some cooked bacon or shredded chicken for an extra protein boost. The possibilities are truly endless, and that’s part of what makes this recipe so special.
Beyond the simple pleasure of a delicious meal, cooking this macaroni and cheese becomes a meditative process. The rhythmic stirring, the careful melting of cheeses, and the anticipation of the bubbly, golden crust all contribute to a sense of calm and satisfaction. It's a break from the daily grind, a chance to connect with myself and my family through a shared culinary experience. It's more than just a recipe; it's a ritual, a way to nourish not just our bodies but also our souls.
I often find myself making a double batch—one for dinner, and one to freeze for a future night when I’m short on time. This freezes beautifully, and it’s always a welcome surprise to pull a ready-made comfort food classic from the freezer. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. So, next time you're looking for a dish that's both delicious and deeply satisfying, give this Soul Food Macaroni and Cheese recipe a try. You won’t regret it.
Beyond the Kitchen Table: This recipe has traveled with me on many adventures. From family picnics to potlucks with friends, this mac and cheese is always a hit. Its transportability and ability to be served warm or at room temperature make it the perfect dish for gatherings, both big and small. It's a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even just on its own. It's comfort food redefined.
Remember, cooking is an act of love. It's a way to express your care and appreciation for those you love, one delicious bite at a time. This Soul Food Macaroni and Cheese recipe is more than just a recipe—it's a love letter to family, friends, and the simple joy of good food.
