Best Ever Mac and Cheese Southern Living Recipe

When it comes to cooking with wine, there's a simple rule to follow: never cook with anything you wouldn't want to drink or eat on its own. This philosophy applies equally well to cheese, which is why we're passionate about using only the best ingredients in our macaroni and cheese recipe.

As you cook your pasta, remember that it will continue to absorb flavors from the cheesy sauce, gaining thickness and depth of flavor along the way. To ensure your noodles are perfectly seasoned, always cook them in water as salty as the sea. And don't overcook them - aim for a slightly firmer texture than you might typically prefer.

When it comes to choosing the perfect pasta shape, there are many options to consider. We're particularly fond of tube-like shapes like ziti, penne, and rigatoni, which provide a sturdy base for our creamy sauce. Corkscrew-shaped fusilli is another great choice, as its ridges help to trap every last bit of cheese.

But what about elbows? Are they the best option for macaroni and cheese? Absolutely! Their short length and ribbed texture make them perfect for gripping luscious sauce, and their slightly thicker diameter reduces the risk of mushiness. And if you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try out cavatappi - a curly, ribbed noodle that's longer than an elbow and may just be the platonic ideal for baked macaroni and cheese.

So why are some shapes better suited to macaroni and cheese than others? It all comes down to texture and structure. Long, thin shapes like spaghetti or linguine can become mushy when cooked in cheesy sauce, while shorter, thicker shapes hold their shape beautifully.

In the end, there's no one 'right' way to make macaroni and cheese - it's all about experimentation and finding your own perfect combination of ingredients and techniques. But with these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating the best ever mac and cheese Southern living has to offer.

Best ever mac and cheese southern living