Danni Rose mac and cheese is a Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese made with tender elbow pasta, a rich blend of provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar, and a creamy egg-and-milk mixture. Baked until golden and set, this comfort food favorite combines a cheesy top with a rich, tender center that holds together beautifully when served.
This Danni Rose baked mac and cheese recipe uses chicken stock to cook the pasta, while butter, sour cream, heavy cream, and whole milk add richness. Eggs help bind the ingredients during baking, creating the classic custard-like texture associated with old-school Southern macaroni and cheese.
Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner, a Sunday family meal, or a comforting side dish, this Danni Rose Southern mac and cheese is a satisfying choice. The layered cheese, simple seasonings, and oven-baked finish make it a great option for anyone who enjoys traditional baked mac and cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Three-cheese flavor: Provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar create a rich, cheesy combination.
- Creamy center: Eggs, milk, and heavy cream help create a tender, cohesive texture.
- Golden baked topping: The cheese on top melts and browns during baking.
- Classic Southern style: An egg-based custard gives the dish its traditional baked structure.
- Simple seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add savory depth.
- Perfect for gatherings: A large baking dish makes it suitable for family meals and celebrations.
- Easy to customize: Choose your favorite cheeses to adjust the flavor.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble before baking.
What Is Danni Rose Mac and Cheese?
Danni Rose mac and cheese is a baked macaroni and cheese preparation featuring elbow pasta, multiple cheeses, dairy, and eggs. Rather than relying entirely on a stovetop cheese sauce, this version uses an egg-and-cream mixture that sets in the oven and helps the macaroni hold together.
The combination of provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar gives the dish a balance of creamy melt, stretchy cheese, and sharp, savory flavor. Sour cream adds richness, while butter coats the macaroni and helps distribute the seasonings.
This style resembles traditional Southern baked macaroni and cheese, which often uses eggs and milk to create a firm yet tender interior. The result is a comforting casserole with a cheesy top and a rich center, making it suitable for everything from Sunday dinners to holiday spreads.
What Does Danni Rose Southern Mac and Cheese Taste Like?
This Danni Rose Southern mac and cheese has a rich, savory cheese flavor with a creamy interior and a golden, cheesy crust. Cheddar contributes a pronounced cheese taste, provolone adds a smooth, savory quality, and mozzarella provides a mild flavor with a stretchy melt.
The butter, sour cream, heavy cream, and whole milk create a full-bodied texture without requiring a separate stovetop cheese sauce. Garlic powder and onion powder add subtle savory notes, while paprika contributes a gentle warmth and a little color.
The eggs give the baked macaroni structure as the mixture sets in the oven. When properly baked and rested, the casserole should be tender and cohesive rather than watery, with soft macaroni surrounded by melted cheese and a lightly browned top.
Ingredients for Danni Rose Mac and Cheese
The ingredients in this Danni Rose mac and cheese recipe work together to create its rich flavor, creamy texture, and traditional baked finish.
- 32 ounces chicken stock: Used to boil the macaroni and add savory flavor. Use additional stock if needed to keep the pasta cooking properly.
- 3½ cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape holds cheese between its curves and throughout the casserole.
- 8 cups shredded cheese: Combine provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar for a balanced blend of flavor and melting qualities. You can adjust the proportions to suit your preference.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds moisture and helps create a creamy interior.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Provides richness and contributes to the custard mixture.
- 3 large eggs: Bind the dairy and cheese mixture as it bakes, helping the casserole hold its shape.
- ¾ cup sour cream: Adds a creamy texture and a subtle tang that balances the richness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing: Coats the macaroni and adds buttery flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a mild, savory onion flavor without adding extra moisture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory note that complements the cheese.
- ½ teaspoon paprika, plus extra for topping: Adds gentle warmth and gives the finished dish a traditional appearance.
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste: Seasons the macaroni and balances the other ingredients.
Which Cheese Works Best?
The three-cheese combination is an important part of this baked macaroni and cheese recipe.
- Cheddar: Supplies a bold, familiar cheese flavor. Sharp cheddar is a good choice if you prefer a more pronounced taste.
- Mozzarella: Adds mild creaminess and a stretchy, melted texture.
- Provolone: Contributes a smooth, savory flavor that complements cheddar.
For the best texture, shred the cheese yourself when possible. Freshly shredded cheese generally melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking ingredients.
You can use different proportions of the three cheeses as long as you keep the total amount close to the specified 8 cups.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Gather these basic kitchen tools before you begin:
- Large pot for boiling the macaroni
- Colander for draining the pasta
- Large mixing bowl for the macaroni and seasonings
- Separate bowl and whisk for the egg mixture
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater, if shredding cheese from blocks
- Deep cast-iron skillet or 9 × 13-inch baking dish
- Oven mitts for safely handling the hot dish
A deep baking dish is particularly useful because it provides room for the layered macaroni, cheese, and custard mixture.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparation time: Approximately 20 minutes
Pasta cooking time: Approximately 7 minutes
Baking time: 45–60 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Estimated total time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes
These are estimates. Preparation time depends on how quickly you shred the cheese and assemble the layers, while baking time varies with the depth and material of your baking dish.
How to Make Danni Rose Mac and Cheese
Follow these steps to prepare a rich, cheesy casserole with a golden top and a tender, set center.
Step 1: Boil the Pasta in Chicken Stock
Bring the 32 ounces of chicken stock to a boil in a large pot. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for approximately 7 minutes, or until al dente. Check the package directions because pasta thickness and cooking times vary.
The macaroni should be tender around the outside but retain a slight firmness in the center. Avoid cooking it until completely soft because it will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain the pasta thoroughly. If the macaroni is excessively wet, the extra liquid can dilute the custard and affect the final texture.
Step 2: Season the Macaroni
Transfer the drained macaroni to a large mixing bowl. Add the ½ cup butter and sour cream, stirring gently until the butter is melted and the ingredients are distributed throughout the pasta.
Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Add the shredded provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar, reserving some cheese for the layers and topping. Mix gently so the cheese is spread throughout the macaroni without breaking up the pasta.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 eggs, 2 cups whole milk, and 1½ cups heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
This egg-and-dairy mixture is what distinguishes this style of baked macaroni and cheese from a traditional stovetop version. During baking, the eggs set and help hold the macaroni, cheese, and dairy together.
Whisk thoroughly to distribute the eggs evenly. This helps the custard bake more consistently throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Layer the Macaroni and Cheese
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a deep cast-iron skillet or a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with additional butter. Spread a layer of the seasoned macaroni into the dish, then add some of the reserved shredded cheese.
Pour some of the egg-and-cream mixture evenly over the layer. Repeat with the remaining macaroni, cheese, and custard mixture until everything has been used.
Finish with a generous layer of shredded cheese. Sprinkle a little extra paprika over the top for color.
Distribute the custard evenly rather than pouring it all into one spot. This helps the liquid reach the pasta throughout the dish.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–60 minutes.
Begin checking toward the lower end of the time range. The cheese should be melted, the top should be golden in places, and the center should be set rather than visibly liquid.
Because the recipe contains eggs, the center should reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Check the temperature in the middle of the casserole with a food thermometer.
If the top browns before the center finishes cooking, loosely cover the dish with foil and continue baking until the center reaches the appropriate temperature.
The exact baking time depends on the depth of the dish, the amount of custard that settles between the pasta, and how your oven distributes heat.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove the baked macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving.
This resting period allows the custard to finish setting and makes the casserole easier to portion. Cutting into it immediately may cause the creamy mixture to spread before it has had time to stabilize.
Serve warm while the cheese is still soft and the top retains its baked texture.
Expert Tips for the Best Danni Rose Baked Mac and Cheese
Follow these practical tips to help the casserole bake evenly and develop the right texture.
1. Cook the Macaroni Until Al Dente
The pasta should retain a little firmness before it goes into the oven. Overcooked macaroni can become soft or mushy after absorbing the custard during baking.
2. Shred the Cheese Fresh
Freshly shredded cheese usually melts more evenly than pre-shredded cheese. A combination of cheddar, provolone, and mozzarella provides a balance of flavor and texture.
3. Reserve Enough Cheese for the Top
Keep a portion of the shredded cheese aside for the final layer. This helps create a cheesy surface that melts and develops golden spots during baking.
4. Distribute the Custard Evenly
Pour the egg, milk, and cream mixture over the layers rather than adding it all in one place. Uneven distribution can leave some areas dry and others excessively wet.
5. Avoid Excessive Stirring
Once the macaroni has been combined with the cheese and seasonings, mix gently. This helps preserve the pasta’s shape and keeps the cheese distributed throughout the casserole.
6. Watch the Center, Not Just the Top
A golden surface does not necessarily mean the center is fully cooked. Check that the middle is set and reaches 160°F (71°C) before removing the dish from the oven.
7. Let the Casserole Rest
Resting for 10 minutes helps the egg-based custard stabilize. This is especially important if you want portions that hold together instead of spreading across the plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Danni Rose Mac and Cheese
Even a straightforward baked macaroni and cheese recipe can turn out differently depending on how the pasta, cheese, and custard are handled.
Overcooking the pasta: Macaroni that is too soft before baking can become mushy. Cook it until al dente and drain it thoroughly.
Using uneven cheese layers: If all the cheese is mixed into one section, the finished casserole may not have an even distribution of melted cheese. Reserve some for layering and topping.
Adding the custard unevenly: Pouring all the liquid into one area can create wet pockets. Spread it across the layers so the macaroni absorbs moisture more evenly.
Baking only until the top looks done: The surface may brown before the egg mixture in the middle has fully set. Use a thermometer to confirm the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the casserole immediately can make it harder to serve neatly. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before portioning.
Adding too much salt without tasting: Chicken stock and cheese can both contribute saltiness. Start with the specified ½ teaspoon and adjust future batches according to the ingredients you use.
Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Substitutions and Variations
One advantage of this Danni Rose mac n cheese recipe is that the cheese blend and seasonings can be adjusted without changing the basic baking method.
Change the Cheese Combination
The recipe calls for provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar, but you can adjust the proportions according to your preferred flavor.
Use more cheddar for a sharper cheese taste, more mozzarella for a milder and stretchier texture, or more provolone for a smooth, savory finish. Keep the total amount near 8 cups to maintain the intended balance of cheese and pasta.
Adjust the Seasonings
Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika provide a savory base without overpowering the cheese. If you prefer a more pronounced seasoning profile, adjust the amounts gradually.
You can also use smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note, although this will change the flavor from the original seasoning combination.
Use a Different Baking Dish
A deep cast-iron skillet or a 9 × 13-inch baking dish works for this recipe. A deeper dish may require more baking time, while a shallower dish can cook more quickly.
If you change the dish size, watch the center carefully instead of relying only on the clock.
Make the Top More Golden
For a more deeply colored surface, allow the cheese to brown naturally as the casserole finishes baking. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes so the cheese does not burn before the center is cooked.
Adjust the Salt to Your Stock
If your chicken stock is salted, the finished dish may need less additional salt. Unsalted or low-sodium stock gives you more control over the final seasoning.
Can You Make This Recipe Ahead?
You can prepare the ingredients and shred the cheese ahead of time to simplify assembly. For the most predictable texture, assemble the casserole close to baking time.
If you assemble it in advance, refrigerate it promptly and keep it covered. A chilled casserole may require additional baking time, so check the center temperature rather than assuming the original timing will be sufficient.
What to Serve With Danni Rose Southern Mac and Cheese
This rich baked macaroni and cheese pairs well with savory main dishes and vegetables that balance its creamy texture.
- Fried chicken: Crispy chicken provides a crunchy contrast to the tender macaroni.
- Roasted chicken: A simple roasted main dish complements the cheesy casserole without competing with its flavor.
- Barbecue ribs: Smoky, savory ribs pair naturally with traditional Southern-style macaroni and cheese.
- Meatloaf: The rich cheese and pasta make a comforting side for a classic meatloaf dinner.
- Collard greens: Tender greens provide a savory vegetable side that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Green beans: Simply seasoned green beans add freshness and texture to the plate.
- Coleslaw: A crisp, tangy slaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.
For a holiday meal, serve the macaroni and cheese alongside roasted meat, green vegetables, and another lighter side dish. For an everyday dinner, pair it with chicken and a simple vegetable.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Mac and Cheese
Allow leftover macaroni and cheese to cool slightly, then transfer it to shallow, airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and keep it refrigerated for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing because the dairy-based custard can separate.
For the best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until steaming hot, stirring if needed to ensure even heating. To reheat a larger portion, place it in an oven-safe dish, add a small splash of milk if the macaroni seems dry, and cover loosely with foil. Warm it in a 325°F (163°C) oven until heated through. Always reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and avoid repeatedly reheating the entire casserole; instead, warm only the portion you plan to eat.
Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe
Danni Rose mac and cheese is a Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese made with tender elbow pasta, a rich blend of provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar, and a creamy egg-and-milk mixture. Baked until golden and set, this comfort food favorite combines a cheesy top with a rich, tender center that holds together beautifully when served.
Ingredients
- 32 ounces chicken stock
- 3½ cups elbow macaroni
- 8 cups shredded cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta in Chicken Stock
Bring the 32 ounces of chicken stock to a boil in a large pot. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for approximately 7 minutes, or until al dente. Check the package directions because pasta thickness and cooking times vary.
The macaroni should be tender around the outside but retain a slight firmness in the center. Avoid cooking it until completely soft because it will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain the pasta thoroughly. If the macaroni is excessively wet, the extra liquid can dilute the custard and affect the final texture.
Step 2: Season the Macaroni
Transfer the drained macaroni to a large mixing bowl. Add the ½ cup butter and sour cream, stirring gently until the butter is melted and the ingredients are distributed throughout the pasta.
Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Add the shredded provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar, reserving some cheese for the layers and topping. Mix gently so the cheese is spread throughout the macaroni without breaking up the pasta.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 eggs, 2 cups whole milk, and 1½ cups heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
This egg-and-dairy mixture is what distinguishes this style of baked macaroni and cheese from a traditional stovetop version. During baking, the eggs set and help hold the macaroni, cheese, and dairy together.
Whisk thoroughly to distribute the eggs evenly. This helps the custard bake more consistently throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Layer the Macaroni and Cheese
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a deep cast-iron skillet or a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with additional butter. Spread a layer of the seasoned macaroni into the dish, then add some of the reserved shredded cheese.
Pour some of the egg-and-cream mixture evenly over the layer. Repeat with the remaining macaroni, cheese, and custard mixture until everything has been used.
Finish with a generous layer of shredded cheese. Sprinkle a little extra paprika over the top for color.
Distribute the custard evenly rather than pouring it all into one spot. This helps the liquid reach the pasta throughout the dish.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–60 minutes. Begin checking toward the lower end of the time range. The cheese should be melted, the top should be golden in places, and the center should be set rather than visibly liquid.
Because the recipe contains eggs, the center should reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Check the temperature in the middle of the casserole with a food thermometer.
If the top browns before the center finishes cooking, loosely cover the dish with foil and continue baking until the center reaches the appropriate temperature.
The exact baking time depends on the depth of the dish, the amount of custard that settles between the pasta, and how your oven distributes heat.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove the baked macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it rest for approximately 10 minutes before serving.
This resting period allows the custard to finish setting and makes the casserole easier to portion. Cutting into it immediately may cause the creamy mixture to spread before it has had time to stabilize.
Serve warm while the cheese is still soft and the top retains its baked texture.
Notes
Allow leftover macaroni and cheese to cool slightly, then transfer it to shallow, airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and keep it refrigerated for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing because the dairy-based custard can separate.
For the best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until steaming hot, stirring if needed to ensure even heating. To reheat a larger portion, place it in an oven-safe dish, add a small splash of milk if the macaroni seems dry, and cover loosely with foil. Warm it in a 325°F (163°C) oven until heated through. Always reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and avoid repeatedly reheating the entire casserole; instead, warm only the portion you plan to eat.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 398
Frequently Asked Questions About Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe
When you give this Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe a try, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry-we’ve rounded up answers to the most common ones to help you out.
1. What Makes Danni Rose Baked Mac and Cheese Different?
The defining feature of this version is its combination of multiple cheeses and an egg-based custard. Rather than depending entirely on a stovetop cheese sauce, the eggs help bind the pasta and dairy as the casserole bakes.
2. What Cheese Should I Use for Danni Rose Mac and Cheese?
The recipe uses provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar. Cheddar adds a pronounced cheese flavor, mozzarella contributes a mild, stretchy melt, and provolone brings a smooth, savory quality. You can adjust their proportions while keeping the total amount close to 8 cups.
3. Why Does Southern Baked Mac and Cheese Use Eggs?
Eggs help the milk and cream mixture set during baking, giving Southern-style macaroni and cheese a more cohesive texture. Once the casserole rests, the set custard helps the portions hold together when served.
4. Should I Cook the Macaroni Before Baking?
Yes. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling chicken stock for approximately 7 minutes, or until al dente. Drain it before combining it with the butter, sour cream, seasonings, and cheese. This gives the pasta a head start without making it excessively soft during baking.
5. Why Is My Baked Mac and Cheese Watery?
A watery casserole can result from excess liquid, unevenly distributed custard, or an undercooked center. Drain the macaroni thoroughly, distribute the egg mixture evenly, and bake until the center reaches 160°F (71°C). Letting the casserole rest also helps the custard stabilize.
6. Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Yes. You can change the proportions of cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone or use another cheese that melts well. However, different cheeses have different moisture levels, flavors, and melting properties, so changing the blend may alter the final texture.
7. How Long Should Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Bake?
Bake it at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45–60 minutes. The exact time depends on the depth of the dish and your oven. The top should be golden, and the center should reach 160°F (71°C) because the recipe contains eggs.
8. Can I Make Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes. You can shred the cheese, measure the seasonings, and prepare the other ingredients in advance. You can also assemble the casserole and refrigerate it promptly before baking, although a chilled dish may need additional cooking time. Always check that the center is fully cooked.
9. How Do You Keep Baked Mac and Cheese Creamy?
Cook the pasta until al dente, use the specified amounts of milk and heavy cream, distribute the custard evenly, and avoid overbaking. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. These steps help the macaroni remain tender while the egg mixture sets.
10. Can I Freeze Southern Baked Mac and Cheese?
Yes. Cool the casserole, divide it into portions, and store them in airtight, freezer-safe containers. Freeze for the best quality and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. The dairy-based mixture may become slightly less smooth after freezing, but gentle reheating can help improve the texture.
This Danni Rose mac and cheese recipe brings together elbow macaroni, provolone, mozzarella, cheddar, and a creamy egg-and-dairy mixture for a comforting baked casserole. The combination of savory seasonings, rich dairy, and a golden cheese topping gives it the familiar appeal of Southern-style macaroni and cheese.
For the best results, cook the pasta until al dente, distribute the custard evenly, and bake until the center is set and reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so the portions hold together. Pair it with fried chicken, barbecue, or your favorite vegetables for a satisfying meal.
We’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Give it a try, then drop a comment below to share your thoughts and tips with us. You can also follow us on Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious updates and kitchen inspiration. Your feedback and support mean the world to us!