Description
Patti LaBelle’s legendary Macaroni & Cheese is the epitome of soul food comfort — creamy, cheesy, buttery perfection baked to golden, bubbling bliss. Discover 5 secrets that make this dish unforgettable and worthy of every celebration.
Ingredients
1 pound elbow macaroni
1/2 stick (4 tbsp) butter
1/2 cup evaporated milk
2 cups half-and-half
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup shredded Muenster cheese
1 cup shredded Colby cheese
1 cup Velveeta, cubed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 2 1/2-quart baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni in salted water until just al dente, then drain and return to pot.
3. Add butter to hot pasta and stir until melted.
4. Mix in evaporated milk, half-and-half, and all cheeses except 1/2 cup cheddar reserved for topping.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and stir until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, top with remaining cheddar and a sprinkle of paprika.
7. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Let rest 10 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.
Notes
⭐ 5 Secrets to Soul-Satisfying Bliss:
1. **Mix multiple cheeses** — each adds its own flavor and melt.
2. **Evaporated milk** gives unmatched richness and body.
3. **Don’t overcook pasta** — it finishes in the oven!
4. **Velveeta magic** — it ensures a silky, creamy consistency.
5. **Let it rest** before serving — this allows the sauce to set perfectly.
Serve this iconic dish with fried chicken, collard greens, or on its own — it’s pure Southern comfort!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Soul Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Patti LaBelle macaroni and cheese, soul food mac and cheese, southern baked mac, creamy cheese pasta