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Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe

Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe makes a rich, creamy baked macaroni and cheese with seasoned pasta, sour cream, melted cheese, and a savory egg custard. It follows the old-school baked style associated with Danni Rose and is ideal for family dinners, Sunday meals, and holiday tables.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Macaroni
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups seasoned chicken stock or broth
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt as needed
For the Cheese Layers
  • 4 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or another good melting cheese
  • For the Custard
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander
  • 9 × 13-inch deep baking dish
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Cheese grater
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Cook the macaroni: Bring the seasoned chicken stock to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente. Do not overcook because the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
  2. Drain the pasta: Drain the macaroni thoroughly and transfer it to a large mixing bowl while it is still warm.
  3. Add butter and sour cream: Stir the butter into the hot pasta until melted. Add the sour cream, paprika, black pepper, and a small amount of salt. Mix gently until the macaroni is evenly coated.
  4. Add some cheese: Fold part of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella into the seasoned macaroni. Keep enough cheese aside for the layers and the top.
  5. Make the custard: Whisk the eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream together in a separate bowl until completely smooth.
  6. Prepare the baking dish: Generously butter a deep 9 × 13-inch baking dish.
  7. Build the first layer: Spread about one-third of the macaroni into the dish. Add a layer of shredded cheese and pour some of the custard evenly over the pasta.
  8. Continue layering: Repeat the macaroni, cheese, and custard layers until everything is used.
  9. Finish the top: Cover the surface with the remaining shredded cheese and lightly sprinkle with paprika.
  10. Bake: Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 35–45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the center is set.
  11. Check the center: Do not judge the dish only by its golden top. The middle should be cooked through but still moist.
  12. Rest before serving: Remove the Danni Rose mac and cheese recipe from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps the custard settle and makes the portions easier to scoop.

Notes

Keep the pasta slightly firm. Overcooked macaroni can become soft after the additional baking time.
Shred the cheese yourself when possible. Freshly shredded cheese generally melts more smoothly.
Do not use all the cheese inside the pasta. Saving some for the middle layers and top gives the baked macaroni better texture.
Watch the center. Baking time can vary depending on the depth of your dish.
Let it rest. Cutting into the casserole immediately can make the center appear much looser than it will be after a short rest.

Serving Suggestion

Serve this Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe warm alongside fried chicken, BBQ chicken, fried fish, collard greens, green beans, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.

Storage

Let leftovers cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy within a few days.
For reheating, add a small splash of milk if the macaroni has become firm. Reheat gently until warmed through.