Hey, Welcome to Gladys Knight’s Mac and Cheese Recipe. Gladys Knight’s Mac and Cheese is a Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese, known for its rich, creamy texture and golden crust.
If you’ve ever dined at her iconic restaurant, you already know how comforting and soul-satisfying this dish is.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this delicious recipe right in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American (Southern)
Category: Main Dish / Side Dish
History and Origin
Gladys Knight’s Mac and Cheese comes from her famous Southern restaurant, “Gladys Knight’s Chicken & Waffles.” It’s rooted in traditional soul food, emphasizing rich dairy, elbow macaroni, and baked goodness.
Over time, this cheesy comfort dish became a fan favorite, loved for its creamy center and crisp, golden-brown topping. By the way, you can also try the Rainforest Cafe Creole Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Gladys Knight’s Mac And Cheese Recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups (shredded) |
| Colby cheese | 1 cup (shredded) |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup (shredded) |
| Whole milk | 1½ cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Eggs | 2 (beaten) |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Paprika (optional topping) | ½ teaspoon |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Homemade Gladys Knight’s Mac And Cheese:
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Cheese grater
- Oven
How to Make Gladys Knight’s Mac And Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Boil 2 cups of elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 6–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack, and 1 cup of evaporated milk. Stir well.
Step 3: Mix Eggs and Seasoning
In a separate bowl, whisk 2 eggs with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon paprika. Add this to the cheese mixture.
Step 4: Combine with Macaroni
Coat the cooked macaroni thoroughly by stirring it into the cheese and egg mixture.
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish. Pour in the macaroni mixture and top with extra cheddar for a cheesy crust.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bubbling and brown on top.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Card
Gladys Knight’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil 2 cups of elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 6–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack, and 1 cup of evaporated milk. Stir well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk 2 eggs with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon paprika. Add this to the cheese mixture.
- Coat the cooked macaroni thoroughly by stirring it into the cheese and egg mixture.
- Grease a baking dish. Pour in the macaroni mixture and top with extra cheddar for a cheesy crust.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bubbling and brown on top.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for Gladys Knight Mac and Cheese Recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 21 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19 g |
| Cholesterol | 125 mg |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Serving Suggestions
This Gladys Knight’s Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with Southern-style fried chicken, collard greens, or baked beans. It can also be eaten with a side salad as a stand-alone main course.
It’s ideal for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or holidays when you want to serve a rich, comforting dish that everyone will love.
Storage Tips
Any leftover mac and cheese can be kept in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual portions.
You can also freeze it for up to a month. For optimal results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What makes this mac and cheese special is its perfect balance between creamy and crispy.
The blend of three cheeses creates richness, while baking forms that golden crust. It’s soul food comfort at its best, just like Gladys Knight serves it.
Tips For Perfect Creaminess
For a smooth, velvety texture, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged ones.
Avoid overcooking the macaroni, as it will continue cooking while baking. Stir gently to keep everything creamy without breaking the pasta or over-thickening the sauce.
Variations To Try
You can personalize this mac and cheese by adding extras like crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or jalapeños.
Some even sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch. These small twists let you enjoy a unique version every time you bake it.
What To Serve With Gladys Knight’s Mac And Cheese
This dish goes well with fried chicken, ribs, or roasted turkey. You can also serve it alongside cornbread, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes for a complete Southern feast.
It’s a wonderful addition to both casual and festive meals.
Why Southern Mac And Cheese Is So Loved
Southern-style mac and cheese is more than comfort food—it’s tradition. Every bite carries warmth, family memories, and hospitality.
Its rich, baked flavor represents the soulful spirit of Southern cooking, making it a cherished dish across generations and communities.
Conclusion
This Gladys Knight’s Mac And Cheese Recipe brings soul food magic to your kitchen with its creamy richness and cheesy goodness. Whether for holidays or cozy dinners, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this mac and cheese baked or stovetop?
It’s a baked mac and cheese recipe that gives you a golden, bubbly crust and a creamy center.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken.
Is it okay to use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to customize with your favorite cheese blends.
You will also like the Rainforest Cafe Rasta Pasta Recipe.
1 thought on “Gladys Knight’s Mac and Cheese Recipe”