Craving that cozy, homestyle comfort food that made Fixer Upper so beloved? This joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe brings the warm, welcoming flavors of Magnolia Table straight to your kitchen.
Known for her approachable yet elevated cooking style, Joanna’s creamy southern mac and cheese features a luxurious three-cheese blend that creates the perfect balance of rich, gooey texture and sophisticated flavor.
This copycat joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself to ultimate comfort food, this magnolia mac and cheese will quickly become your go-to recipe. Let’s recreate this joanna gaines comfort food recipe that’s captured hearts across America!
What is Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese and How Does It Taste?
Joanna Gaines mac and cheese is a elevated take on classic Southern comfort food, featured in the Magnolia Table cookbook and beloved by fans of the Magnolia brand. This magnolia table mac and cheese recipe combines three distinct cheeses-sharp Cheddar, nutty Gruyere, and creamy Mozzarella-in a silky béchamel-based sauce that coats every piece of tender macaroni.
The taste is incredibly rich and creamy with complex cheese flavors that go beyond ordinary mac and cheese. The Gruyere adds sophisticated nuttiness, while Cheddar provides sharp tanginess and Mozzarella contributes stretchy, melty texture.
A hint of nutmeg adds unexpected warmth and depth, elevating this southern mac and cheese recipe above standard versions. The joanna gaines baked mac and cheese features a golden, bubbly cheese crust on top that provides textural contrast to the creamy interior, making every bite absolutely irresistible.
Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe Ingredients
Main Components:
- 14 oz (400g) macaroni pasta
- 1 cup (115g) Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup (85g) Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup (85g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
- 4 cups (1L) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional Add-ins:
- Cooked crispy bacon
- Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)
- Additional spices (paprika, cayenne)
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium-large saucepan for cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Large mixing bowl
- Box grater or food processor (for shredding cheese)
- 12-inch (30cm) round baking dish or 9×13 inch baking dish
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 portions
Copycat Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). This moderate temperature ensures the magnolia mac and cheese bakes evenly without drying out the creamy sauce while creating that perfect golden-brown cheese crust on top.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine all three shredded cheeses-the Cheddar, Gruyere, and Mozzarella. Toss them together until evenly mixed. This cheese blend is what makes this joanna gaines magnolia cookbook mac and cheese so special and flavorful. Set aside approximately 3/4 of this mixture for the sauce, and reserve the remaining 1/4 for topping.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook it until al dente-about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking ensures it doesn’t become mushy in the final joanna gaines baked mac and cheese. Drain the pasta in a colander when done, but don’t rinse it.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce Base
While the pasta is cooking, start your cheese sauce. In a large pot or deep saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat until it’s completely liquefied and just beginning to foam. Add the flour all at once and immediately begin whisking vigorously. Continue whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes to create a roux-this cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the thickening base for your creamy southern mac and cheese sauce. The mixture should turn a light golden color and smell slightly nutty.
Step 5: Add Milk and Thicken
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add it slowly at first, whisking after each addition until smooth, then you can pour more quickly while maintaining constant whisking motion. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently with your whisk. The sauce will gradually thicken and should coat the back of a spoon when ready. This creates the silky, smooth foundation for your magnolia table mac and cheese.
Step 6: Incorporate the Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Gradually add about 3/4 of your mixed cheese blend to the warm milk mixture, adding it in handfuls. Whisk after each addition until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated before adding more. This gradual process ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. Once all the cheese is melted, season with salt, black pepper, and the nutmeg-this subtle spice is Joanna’s secret ingredient that adds warmth and complexity to this fixer upper mac and cheese recipe. If you’re adding optional ingredients like crispy bacon or fresh herbs, stir them in now.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni directly to the cheese sauce. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold and stir until every piece of pasta is completely coated in the luxurious cheese sauce. The pasta should be swimming in sauce-it will absorb some liquid during baking, so don’t worry if it seems very saucy at this stage.
Step 8: Transfer and Top
Pour the entire mixture into your 12-inch round baking dish (or a 9×13 inch rectangular dish). Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 of the cheese mixture evenly across the top-this will create that beautiful golden, bubbly crust that makes joanna gaines creamy mac and cheese so visually appealing and texturally satisfying.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated 360°F (180°C) oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the top to turn golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy, and you’ll see the sauce bubbling around the sides. If you want an extra-crispy top, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving-this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve neat portions of your copycat joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe.
Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving
1. Classic BBQ Pairing
Serve your magnolia mac and cheese alongside smoky pulled pork, grilled chicken, or beef brisket for the ultimate Southern comfort meal. The creamy, rich mac and cheese perfectly balances the tangy, smoky flavors of barbecue sauce and slow-cooked meats. Add coleslaw and cornbread to complete this quintessential joanna gaines comfort food recipe experience.
2. Bacon Lover’s Version
Elevate your joanna gaines mac and cheese by folding in crispy, crumbled bacon pieces before baking. Reserve some bacon to sprinkle on top along with the cheese for added texture and smoky flavor. The salty, crispy bacon creates delicious contrast with the creamy cheese sauce, making this version irresistible for bacon enthusiasts.
3. Vegetable-Enhanced Option
Make your magnolia table mac and cheese more substantial and nutritious by adding roasted broccoli florets, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms. These vegetables add earthiness and texture while maintaining the dish’s comforting nature. Roasted cherry tomatoes also work beautifully, adding bright pops of acidity that cut through the richness.
4. Spicy Kick Variation
For those who enjoy heat, transform this southern mac and cheese recipe by adding diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. You can also top it with crispy jalapeño chips or hot sauce before serving. This spicy version maintains Joanna’s creamy base while adding exciting heat that awakens the palate.
5. Protein-Packed Main Dish
Turn this copycat joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe into a complete meal by adding shredded rotisserie chicken, lobster chunks, or grilled shrimp. These proteins make the mac and cheese substantial enough to serve as the main course rather than a side dish. The seafood version particularly shines, creating an indulgent surf-and-turf experience.
6. Holiday Feast Companion
This joanna gaines baked mac and cheese is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or prime rib. The creamy, cheesy goodness complements traditional holiday sides like green bean casserole and cranberry sauce. It’s sophisticated enough for special occasions yet comforting enough to feel like home.
7. Breadcrumb-Crusted Upgrade
For added texture and visual appeal, top your magnolia mac and cheese with buttered panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan before baking. The breadcrumbs create an extra-crispy golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. Fresh thyme leaves mixed into the breadcrumbs add herbal notes that complement the nutmeg in Joanna’s original recipe.
Essential Tips for Perfect Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese
1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Never use pre-shredded cheese for this magnolia table mac and cheese recipe. Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting and can make your sauce grainy or separated. Buy blocks of Cheddar, Gruyere, and Mozzarella and shred them yourself using a box grater or food processor. The extra effort pays off with incredibly smooth, creamy sauce that defines this joanna gaines creamy mac and cheese.
2. Perfect Your Roux Technique
The flour and butter mixture (roux) is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your fixer upper mac and cheese recipe. Cook it over medium-low heat while whisking constantly for the full 2-3 minutes. Under-cooking leaves a raw flour taste, while burning creates bitter flavors. The roux should smell slightly nutty and turn a very light golden color when properly cooked.
3. Control Your Heat Carefully
When making the cheese sauce for this mac and cheese similar to magnolia, temperature control is everything. Too high heat causes the proteins in cheese to seize up and become stringy or grainy. Keep your heat at medium-low to low, especially when adding cheese. Patience creates the silky, luxurious texture that makes this southern mac and cheese recipe so special.
4. Don’t Skip the Nutmeg
The quarter teaspoon of nutmeg might seem insignificant, but it’s a signature element in this joanna gaines magnolia cookbook mac and cheese. Nutmeg adds warmth and subtle complexity that elevates the dish beyond ordinary mac and cheese. Use freshly grated nutmeg if possible for the most aromatic, potent flavor. This small addition is part of what makes Joanna’s version taste restaurant-quality.
5. Cook Pasta Al Dente
Undercooking your macaroni by 1-2 minutes ensures it doesn’t become mushy during the baking process. The pasta will absorb sauce and continue cooking in the oven, so starting with al dente texture is essential. Test a piece a minute or two before the package suggests-it should have a slight firmness in the center but not taste raw or hard.
6. Use Whole Milk for Creaminess
Don’t substitute low-fat or skim milk in this copycat joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe. The fat content in whole milk is necessary for creating the rich, creamy sauce texture that defines Magnolia Table’s version. The milk fat also helps the cheese emulsify smoothly and prevents the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.
7. Let It Rest Before Serving
After removing your joanna gaines baked mac and cheese from the oven, resist the temptation to serve immediately. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes. During this time, the sauce thickens slightly and sets, making it easier to serve neat portions. The flavors also meld together beautifully. This resting period is the final step to achieving the perfect consistency and presentation that makes this magnolia mac and cheese so impressive.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store leftover joanna gaines mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk, stirring halfway through. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, adding milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Joanna Gaines Mac and Cheese Recipe
Craving that cozy, homestyle comfort food that made Fixer Upper so beloved? This joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe brings the warm, welcoming flavors of Magnolia Table straight to your kitchen. Known for her approachable yet elevated cooking style, Joanna’s creamy southern mac and cheese features a luxurious three-cheese blend that creates the perfect balance of rich, gooey texture and sophisticated flavor.
Ingredients
- 14 oz (400g) macaroni pasta
- 1 cup (115g) Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup (85g) Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup (85g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
- 4 cups (1L) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Cooked crispy bacon
- Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)
- Additional spices (paprika, cayenne)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). This moderate temperature ensures the magnolia mac and cheese bakes evenly without drying out the creamy sauce while creating that perfect golden-brown cheese crust on top.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine all three shredded cheeses-the Cheddar, Gruyere, and Mozzarella. Toss them together until evenly mixed. This cheese blend is what makes this joanna gaines magnolia cookbook mac and cheese so special and flavorful. Set aside approximately 3/4 of this mixture for the sauce, and reserve the remaining 1/4 for topping.
Step 3: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook it until al dente-about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking ensures it doesn’t become mushy in the final joanna gaines baked mac and cheese. Drain the pasta in a colander when done, but don’t rinse it.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce Base
While the pasta is cooking, start your cheese sauce. In a large pot or deep saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat until it’s completely liquefied and just beginning to foam. Add the flour all at once and immediately begin whisking vigorously. Continue whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes to create a roux-this cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the thickening base for your creamy southern mac and cheese sauce. The mixture should turn a light golden color and smell slightly nutty.
Step 5: Add Milk and Thicken
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add it slowly at first, whisking after each addition until smooth, then you can pour more quickly while maintaining constant whisking motion. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently with your whisk. The sauce will gradually thicken and should coat the back of a spoon when ready. This creates the silky, smooth foundation for your magnolia table mac and cheese.
Step 6: Incorporate the Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Gradually add about 3/4 of your mixed cheese blend to the warm milk mixture, adding it in handfuls. Whisk after each addition until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated before adding more. This gradual process ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. Once all the cheese is melted, season with salt, black pepper, and the nutmeg-this subtle spice is Joanna’s secret ingredient that adds warmth and complexity to this fixer upper mac and cheese recipe. If you’re adding optional ingredients like crispy bacon or fresh herbs, stir them in now.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni directly to the cheese sauce. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold and stir until every piece of pasta is completely coated in the luxurious cheese sauce. The pasta should be swimming in sauce-it will absorb some liquid during baking, so don’t worry if it seems very saucy at this stage.
Step 8: Transfer and Top
Pour the entire mixture into your 12-inch round baking dish (or a 9×13 inch rectangular dish). Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 of the cheese mixture evenly across the top-this will create that beautiful golden, bubbly crust that makes joanna gaines creamy mac and cheese so visually appealing and texturally satisfying.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated 360°F (180°C) oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the top to turn golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy, and you’ll see the sauce bubbling around the sides. If you want an extra-crispy top, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving-this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve neat portions of your copycat joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe.
Notes
Store leftover joanna gaines mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk, stirring halfway through. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, adding milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 400
Common Queries and FAQs
When you give this Joanna Gaines 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.
Q: Can I make this joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the magnolia table mac and cheese completely through step 8, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. This makes it perfect for entertaining or holiday meal prep.
Q: What makes Gruyere cheese important in this magnolia mac and cheese?
A: Gruyere adds a sophisticated, nutty flavor that elevates this beyond standard mac and cheese. It’s a key ingredient in the joanna gaines magnolia cookbook mac and cheese that creates depth and complexity. If unavailable, substitute with Swiss cheese or use extra sharp white Cheddar, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Q: Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
A: While macaroni is traditional, you can use shells, cavatappi, or penne in this southern mac and cheese recipe. Choose pasta with ridges or curves that hold sauce well. Adjust cooking time according to the pasta shape’s package directions, always cooking to al dente.
Q: Why does my cheese sauce sometimes turn grainy?
A: Grainy sauce usually results from cooking cheese over too-high heat or using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. For smooth joanna gaines creamy mac and cheese, keep heat low when adding cheese and always use freshly shredded varieties. Adding cheese gradually while whisking also helps.
Q: Can I freeze this copycat joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe?
A: Yes, this magnolia mac and cheese freezes reasonably well. Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F with added milk to restore creaminess. The texture may be slightly less creamy than fresh.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version of this fixer upper mac and cheese recipe?
A: While it won’t taste exactly like Joanna’s version, you can use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk (oat or cashew work best), and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast adds cheesy flavor. The texture and taste will differ from the original magnolia table mac and cheese recipe.
Q: How do I prevent the top from burning while baking?
A: If the top of your joanna gaines baked mac and cheese is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time. The 360°F temperature is specifically chosen to prevent burning while still creating a golden crust.
Q: What’s the best baking dish size for this recipe?
A: A 12-inch round baking dish or a 9×13 inch rectangular dish works perfectly for this joanna gaines comfort food recipe. The depth should be at least 2-3 inches to accommodate the generous amount of creamy sauce without overflowing during baking.
This joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe proves that simple, quality ingredients prepared with care create extraordinary comfort food. The three-cheese blend, subtle nutmeg seasoning, and perfectly balanced creamy sauce showcase why Magnolia Table has become synonymous with approachable, heartwarming cooking.
Whether you’re a longtime fan searching for the copycat joanna gaines mac and cheese recipe or discovering this southern mac and cheese recipe for the first time, you’ll understand why this dish has earned its place as a beloved favorite. The combination of sophisticated cheese selection and homestyle preparation makes this magnolia mac and cheese suitable for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Bring the warmth and hospitality of joanna gaines comfort food recipes into your home with this unforgettable, crowd-pleasing classic!
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