Southern-Style Macaroni & Cheese

Step 1

Cook noodles in liberally salted water one minute less than the package instructions for al dente preparation. Drain noodles then set aside.

Step 2

While noodles are cooking, shred cheese, reserving two cups of cheese for the top layer.

Step 3

Combine evaporated milk, eggs, salt, pepper, mustard powder and cayenne pepper in a large bowl and mix thoroughly (make sure the eggs are well combined into the mixture).

Step 4

Spray a 3-quart 13x9 baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 5

Layer noodles and cheese evenly into baking dish (aim for about 4 layers of noodles.

Step 6

Sprinkle reserved 2 cups of cheese evenly over everything then pour milk mixture evenly over noodles and cheese.

Step 7

Cut butter into thin pats then place them evenly on top of cheese.

Step 8

Bake, uncovered for 40-45 minutes at 350 degrees or until cheese is lightly browned and dish is bubbly.

Step 9

Remove from oven then let rest 20-25 minutes before serving. Don't skip this step... if you dig into this right out of the oven the inside will be soupy. The dish needs time to "set up".