J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese recipe brings classic comfort food to a whole new level. Known for its rich, creamy texture and perfectly baked golden crust, this dish has become a favorite for anyone craving a hearty, satisfying meal. We love how it combines simple ingredients into something truly special that feels both indulgent and familiar.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a cozy weeknight treat, this mac and cheese hits all the right notes. It’s easy to make yet delivers that restaurant-quality flavor that keeps us coming back for more. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to recreate this beloved Southern classic in our own kitchens.
Ingredients for J Alexander’s Mac And Cheese Recipe
To recreate J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese from scratch, we focus on quality ingredients that build its signature creamy texture and bold flavor. Below are the essential components categorized for clarity and ease.
Cheese Blend
The rich, velvety cheese blend defines this dish. We combine multiple cheeses to achieve depth and perfect meltability:
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – shredded, 2 cups (provides classic tang and color)
- Gruyère Cheese – shredded, 1 cup (adds nuttiness and smooth melt)
- Parmesan Cheese – finely grated, ½ cup (for sharp, salty finish)
- Cream Cheese – softened, 4 ounces (ensures smooth creaminess)
Pasta
The pasta choice supports the sauce’s cling and bake texture:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni | 12 ounces | Classic shape, cooks al dente |
Sauce Ingredients
Our béchamel-based cheese sauce requires these ingredients for thickness and flavor:
- Unsalted Butter – 4 tablespoons (for richness and roux base)
- All-Purpose Flour – ¼ cup (to thicken sauce)
- Whole Milk – 3 cups, warmed (for creamy consistency)
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup (adds extra richness)
- Salt – 1 teaspoon, adjust to taste
- Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon, freshly ground
- Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon (for subtle aroma)
- Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon (background sweetness)
Optional Toppings
To finish with a golden, crunchy crust, consider these toppings:
- Panko Breadcrumbs – 1 cup (light and crispy texture)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons, melted (to toast breadcrumbs)
- Extra Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup, grated (enhances crust flavor)
- Smoked Paprika – a pinch (for color and mild smoky note)
These ingredients combine to give J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese its distinct, indulgent character we all love. Let’s move on to the next step where we transform these into a delicious dish.
Equipment Needed
To achieve the signature creamy texture and golden crust of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese, we need the right tools for precise cooking and perfect layering. Here’s our list of essential equipment to guide us step-by-step:
- Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni until al dente. Choose a pot with plenty of space to avoid pasta sticking together.
- Colander: To drain the cooked macaroni efficiently and prevent overcooking.
- Saucepan: For making the smooth béchamel cheese sauce. A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat distribution and prevents scorching.
- Whisk: Essential to blend the butter, flour, milk, and cheeses seamlessly creating a rich velvety sauce.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce evenly.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ideal for assembling the mac and cheese and achieving that crowd-pleasing golden crust during baking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate quantities of ingredients ensuring consistent flavor and texture.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To stir the pasta and sauce gently without breaking the noodles.
- Oven Mitts: To safely handle hot cookware when transferring from stovetop to oven.
- Grater: If using block cheeses, a fine grater will help melt cheeses smoothly into the sauce.
- Food Thermometer (optional): To verify the internal temperature of the baked mac and cheese is perfectly hot and bubbling.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil elbow macaroni to al dente |
| Colander | Drain pasta |
| Saucepan | Prepare béchamel cheese sauce |
| Whisk | Blend sauce ingredients smoothly |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine pasta and sauce |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Bake mac and cheese to develop golden crust |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensure ingredient accuracy |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Stir gently without damaging pasta |
| Oven Mitts | Safely handle hot pans |
| Grater | Shred cheeses finely for smooth melting |
| Food Thermometer | Optional; check baking temperature |
“Using the proper equipment helps us replicate the restaurant-quality finish that makes J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese a beloved Southern classic.”
With this setup, we’re ready to move confidently through each preparation step, ensuring every bite is creamy, cheesy, and crispy on top just like the original.
Prep Work
Before we begin assembling our J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese, we need to complete some crucial prep steps. These foundational tasks ensure our dish achieves the perfect creamy texture and golden crust that define this Southern classic.
Preparing the Pasta
We start by cooking the elbow macaroni to the ideal texture — al dente. Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Salt enhances the pasta’s flavor during cooking.
- Use 4 cups of elbow macaroni for this recipe.
- Add macaroni to the boiling water and stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, or until firm but tender (al dente).
- Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse briefly under warm water to stop the cooking process.
- Set the drained pasta aside while we prepare the cheese sauce.
This step keeps the pasta firm and ready to absorb the rich cheese sauce without becoming mushy.
Grating Cheese and Preparing Sauce Ingredients
The secret to J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese lies in our luscious cheese blend and smooth béchamel sauce. Take time to prepare all ingredients before moving on:
| Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar (2 cups) | Freshly grated for smooth melting |
| Gruyère (1 cup) | Finely shredded for creaminess |
| Parmesan (¾ cup) | Grated for nutty depth |
| Cream Cheese (4 oz) | Softened to room temperature |
| Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) | Cubed and ready for melting |
| All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup) | Measured accurately for thickening |
| Whole Milk (2 cups) | Warmed to avoid curdling |
| Heavy Cream (1 cup) | Warmed for richness |
| Garlic Powder (1 tsp) | Pre-measured for seasoning |
| Onion Powder (1 tsp) | Pre-measured for seasoning |
| Salt (1 tsp) | To taste |
| Black Pepper (½ tsp) | Freshly ground preferred |
We grate cheeses freshly to maintain their moisture and melting qualities. The béchamel base requires precise flour measurement to thicken perfectly without lumps. Warming the milk and cream prevents lumps and creates a silky sauce.
“Proper prep of cheeses and sauces is the cornerstone of achieving the signature creaminess and bold flavor that sets J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese apart.”
Having all ingredients ready expedites the cooking process and ensures each step flows seamlessly. Next, we will focus on combining these elements for that irresistible creamy finish.
Making the Cheese Sauce
The heart of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese lies in its silky smooth cheese sauce. This sauce brings together a perfect balance of creaminess and bold flavors that make the dish truly unforgettable. Let’s dive into the crucial steps to craft this rich, luscious sauce.
Melting the Cheese
To start, we gently melt a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, and cream cheese to build the sauce’s depth. It’s important to melt the cheeses slowly to avoid graininess or separation. Here’s how we ensure a velvety texture:
- Use low heat on the stove to slowly soften the cheeses.
- Add the cheeses in small batches, stirring constantly.
- Avoid direct high heat as it causes the cheese proteins to tighten and become stringy.
- Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
This careful melting process guarantees the signature richness and flavor J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese is known for.
Combining Sauce Components
The cheese sauce begins with a classic béchamel base made from butter, flour, and warmed milk. Here’s the step-by-step to blend all sauce components perfectly:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Melted to start the roux |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | Whisked with butter for thickening |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | Warmed for smoother sauce |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Added for extra creaminess |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Season to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground for optimal flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
| Onion powder | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds subtle depth to the sauce |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Create the roux: Melt the butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it bubbles but does not brown.
- Add liquids: Slowly whisk in the warmed whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer to thicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
- Season: Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly.
- Incorporate melted cheese: Gradually add the melted cheese blend while stirring briskly. Maintain low heat to keep the sauce smooth.
- Final texture check: The cheese sauce should be thick enough to cling to the macaroni but smooth enough to pour easily.
By following these precise steps, we create the distinctive, creamy cheese sauce that defines J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese. The harmonious meld of seasonings, cream, and cheese ensures every spoonful delivers that classic indulgent taste and texture.
Cooking the Mac And Cheese
Now that we have our perfectly cooked macaroni and luscious cheese sauce ready, it’s time to bring them together and craft the creamy heart of J Alexander’s Mac And Cheese. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for the rich, cheesy texture and the indulgent flavor that define the dish.
Mixing Pasta and Cheese Sauce
To start, gently fold the al dente elbow macaroni into the warm cheese sauce. Use a large mixing bowl or the heavy-bottomed pan to do this with a spatula or wooden spoon. It’s essential to combine these components carefully—stirring just enough to coat each macaroni piece without breaking it down.
- Add the macaroni gradually to the cheese sauce.
- Fold with slow, deliberate motions for even coverage.
- Ensure the mixture is homogeneous and smooth.
This step guarantees every bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness that is the hallmark of J Alexander’s Mac And Cheese.
Baking (if applicable)
Baking enhances our masterpiece by forming that signature golden crust we all anticipate. Here’s how to bake the assembled mac and cheese perfectly:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- For that irresistible crust, sprinkle a topping of:
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Shredded Parmesan
- A drizzle of melted butter
- Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika for color and subtle smokiness
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the topping is crispy and golden.
| Baking Temperature | Baking Time | Crust Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 25-30 mins | Panko, Parmesan, melted butter, paprika (optional) |
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese, we recommend the following serving ideas that complement its rich, creamy texture and golden crust:
Pairing with Proteins
- Serve alongside grilled chicken breast or roasted pork tenderloin to balance the creamy richness with lean, savory flavors.
- For a Southern-inspired meal, pair with barbecue ribs or smoked brisket, emphasizing the hearty, comforting nature of this classic dish.
Vegetable Complements
- Add a bright contrast with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. These fresh, crisp veggies enhance the meal without overpowering the mac and cheese’s cheesy indulgence.
- For extra flavor, sauté garlic spinach or creamy sautéed mushrooms to serve on the side.
Garnish and Presentation Tips
- Top the mac and cheese with freshly chopped chives, crisp bacon bits, or a light sprinkle of smoked paprika to elevate the flavor and add visual appeal.
- Serve in individual ramekins for a formal presentation or family-style in the baking dish for casual dinners.
Beverage Pairings
| Beverage Type | Suggested Drinks | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Wine | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir | Buttery or fruity notes complement creamy cheese |
| Beer | Pale Ale, Pilsner | Crisp, refreshing contrast to richness |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling water with lemon, Iced tea | Cleansing palate between bites |
Reheating Leftovers
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes covered with foil to maintain creaminess.
- Avoid microwave reheating to prevent a rubbery texture; use oven warming for best results.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To prepare J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese ahead of time while preserving its rich texture and signature crust, we recommend following these detailed steps:
- Cook and Cool the Macaroni:
After boiling the elbow macaroni al dente, drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Spread the pasta on a baking sheet or shallow pan to cool completely. This prevents clumping and ensures easy incorporation into the cheese sauce later.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
Assemble the béchamel and melt the cheese blend as described in the previous section. Once complete, allow the cheese sauce to cool to room temperature but do not refrigerate it hot, as this can alter the sauce’s smoothness.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
Fold the cooked macaroni gently into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Avoid over-stirring to maintain the pasta’s shape and texture.
- Store Properly:
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or directly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in the refrigerator if baking within 24 hours. For longer storage up to 2 days, refrigeration is still recommended.
- Add Topping Later:
To keep the topping crisp and golden, do not add the panko breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture until right before baking. Store the topping separately in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Reheating and Baking:
When ready to bake, remove the mac and cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit for 20-30 minutes at room temperature. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Add the topping evenly over the surface, drizzle with melted butter, and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden. Optionally sprinkle smoked paprika during baking for enhanced aroma and color.
| Step | Instructions | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Cook and Cool Pasta | Boil al dente, rinse with cold water, cool | Spread in a single layer |
| Prepare Cheese Sauce | Make béchamel, melt cheese, cool to room temp | Avoid refrigerating hot sauce |
| Combine | Gently fold pasta into sauce | Preserve pasta integrity |
| Store | Cover airtight, refrigerate up to 2 days | Use baking dish or container |
| Add Topping | Keep separate until baking | Store topping dry at room temp |
| Reheat & Bake | Let sit, add topping, bake 25-30 min @ 350°F | Bake until golden and bubbly |
Pro Tip: For best results, avoid microwaving leftovers as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery. Oven reheating is ideal to maintain the creamy texture and crispy topping.
By ensuring precise make-ahead storage and reheating steps, we can enjoy the full luxurious flavor and creamy consistency of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese whenever we desire.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating are essential to preserving the creamy texture and signature crust of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese. Follow these detailed steps to ensure every bite remains as indulgent as the first.
Storing J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes before storing.
- Transfer the mac and cheese into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- If you plan to store the breadcrumb topping separately, keep it in a small, airtight container to maintain its crunch.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to keep the ingredients fresh and safe to consume.
| Storage Duration | Temperature | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 4 days | 36°F to 40°F (2°C to 4°C) | Airtight container or tightly covered baking dish |
Reheating Instructions for Optimal Creaminess
To preserve the rich creaminess and crisp topping, avoid the microwave. Instead, follow our oven reheating guide:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If stored in a container, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
- If the breadcrumb topping was stored separately, sprinkle it evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent the top from burning.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- “Microwaving leftover mac and cheese often results in a rubbery texture and uneven heating.” The oven method ensures even heat distribution and a freshly baked crust.
- For a moist texture, add a tablespoon of milk or cream over the mac and cheese before covering with foil.
- Use a sharp knife or fork to break any crust before stirring to maintain the sauce’s creaminess throughout.
With these storage and reheating tips, our J Alexander’S Mac And Cheese Recipe will stay delicious and indulgent, ready to enjoy anytime.
Conclusion
J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese is more than just a comforting dish—it’s a celebration of rich flavors and creamy textures that bring warmth to any table. With the right ingredients, equipment, and techniques, we can recreate this Southern favorite in our own kitchens with confidence.
Whether we’re making it fresh or preparing it ahead, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of cheesy indulgence and crispy topping every time. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and proteins, making it a go-to for family dinners or special occasions.
Let’s embrace this recipe as a delicious way to enjoy classic comfort food elevated to restaurant-quality standards right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese different from regular mac and cheese?
J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese is distinguished by its rich, creamy texture, a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, and cream cheese, and a golden, crunchy panko topping. The béchamel-based cheese sauce and careful layering of flavors elevate it beyond typical comfort food, offering restaurant-quality indulgence.
What are the key ingredients for J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese?
The essential ingredients include elbow macaroni, a cheese blend (sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, cream cheese), unsalted butter, flour, warmed whole milk, heavy cream, and seasonings like salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Optional toppings are panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, extra Parmesan, and smoked paprika.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You will need a large pot for boiling macaroni, colander, heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk, mixing bowl, 9×13-inch baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon, oven mitts, grater, and optionally a food thermometer.
How should I cook the macaroni for the best texture?
Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Then rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent stickiness, ensuring the pasta retains a firm texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
How do I make the cheese sauce creamy and smooth?
Start by making a classic béchamel base with butter, flour, and warmed milk. Slowly melt the cheese blend into the béchamel while whisking continuously. Avoid overheating or melting the cheese too quickly to prevent graininess.
How do I combine the macaroni and cheese sauce?
Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir carefully to coat the pasta evenly without breaking it, resulting in a rich and uniformly cheesy dish.
What is the baking process to achieve a golden crust?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, top with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and melted butter. Optionally sprinkle smoked paprika. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is crisp and golden.
Can I make J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and keep the breadcrumb topping aside. Assemble the dish just before baking to maintain the creamy texture and crispy topping.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Cool completely and store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve creaminess and crust. Avoid microwaving to prevent a rubbery texture.
What are some serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve with grilled chicken or barbecue ribs for protein and side vegetables like steamed green beans or garlic spinach. Garnish with chives or bacon bits and pair with a Chardonnay or pale ale for a complete meal experience.