Best New Orleans Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Best New Orleans Baked Macaroni and Cheese

A rich, creamy, and flavorful Southern-style mac and cheese with a bold Cajun kick, with spaghetti noodles baked to golden perfection.

✔️ Prep Time: 15 minutes
✔️ Cook Time: 40 minutes
✔️ Total Time: 55 minutes
✔️ Servings: 6-8
✔️ Category: Side Dish
✔️ Cuisine: Southern, Cajun

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Make the best New Orleans Baked Mac ‘N’ Cheese with a creamy, cheesy blend and a bold Cajun kick. This Southern-style mac and cheese is rich, flavorful, and baked to perfection!

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Ingredients

Mac & Cheese Base:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni (spaghetti noodles)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Cheese Blend:

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 cup smoked gouda, shredded
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated

Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil spaghetti noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Roux

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.

3. Create the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Add the Cheese

Lower heat and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, gouda, and parmesan, mixing until smooth and creamy.

5. Combine with Pasta

Add cooked spaghetti noodles to the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated.

6. Assemble & Bake

Pour into a buttered 9x13-inch baking dish.

Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Cajun seasoning, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

7. Serve & Enjoy!

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy goodness!

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 50g
• Fat: 24g

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Tips & Variations

🔥 Extra Spicy? Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper for more heat.
🦐 New Orleans Style? Top with grilled shrimp or andouille sausage for a true Cajun experience.
🧀 Extra Creamy? Add more heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce.
🍞 Crunchier Topping? Use crushed Ritz crackers instead of panko.

This New Orleans Baked Mac and Cheese is creamy, indulgent, and packed with Southern soul—a must-try comfort food! 🧀🔥

WATCH VIDEO - Step-by-step instructions on How To Make New Orleans Baked Macaroni and Cheese!

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