When there is a multitude of opinions on a topic, it signals a wealth of passion, and Southern chefs definitely have strong opinions when it comes to homemade mac and cheese. Surprisingly, this classic comfort food garners more debate among Southern chefs than even cornbread or biscuits. Though it appears to be a straightforward dish of pasta and cheese, the variations and techniques are endless. Should it be prepared on the stovetop or baked in the oven? These questions lead to intricate discussions with details you never imagined possible for a dish that your mom used to whip up without any fuss. Should you add egg when baking it? Consider a creamy roux-based bechamel? Opt for white cheddar or yellow cheddar? The list goes on.
However, Southern chefs do agree on one thing: a cheesy, comforting meal full of nostalgia is irresistible, sometimes prompting a return to the basics. This could mean a quick stop at a beloved fast-food joint, a trusted store-bought box that caters to the whole family, or a traditional pork barbecue side that evokes childhood memories.
Chef Ryan Pera of Coltivare in Houston, TX may not frequently prepare mac and cheese, as he usually leans towards familiar cheesy Italian dishes like cacio e pepe for comfort food. But he used to make Annie’s Mac & Cheese regularly for his wife, Lori. Similarly, Chef Brian Mooney of Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen in Birmingham, AL sees mac and cheese as a family favorite. “My family has always adored Annie’s Mac & Cheese,” Mooney shares. The organic nature of this brand, with its simple ingredients and easy availability at mainstream stores, makes it a go-to choice for many families.
On the other hand, Chef Tyler Haake of Indaco in Atlanta, GA prefers a local favorite at Community Q in Decatur. Their mac and cheese, made with rigatoni noodles and a creamy Cheddar cheese sauce, closely resembles the comforting flavors of childhood. For Haake, the attention to detail in the preparation is key, ensuring a creamy, indulgent, and nostalgic experience.
Chef Travis Kirkley of Indigo Road Hospitality in Charlotte, NC sticks with a childhood classic, Velveeta Shells and Cheese, enhanced with a small can of Rotel for a touch of spice and acidity. This dish serves as the perfect weeknight meal, reminiscent of cherished memories.
Meanwhile, Chef Jonathan Ferguson of Little Coyote in Chattanooga, TN recently rediscovered the mac and cheese side at Chick-Fil-A, praising its perfect creaminess without being overly heavy on the cheese. On good days, it even boasts a beautifully baked crust that cracks under a plastic spork.
Lastly, Chef JR Bearden of Osteria Olio in Athens, GA believes Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ takes the crown for the best mac and cheese. This Southern staple perfectly complements their barbecue offerings, with a creamy, decadent, and nostalgic appeal that makes it a top choice among
When it comes to choosing favorite restaurants, the quality of their side dishes often plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. One establishment that consistently impresses diners with its sides is Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q. Amongst their array of delectable offerings, their mac and cheese stands out for its exceptional quality. Diners rave about the perfect combination of a crisp top layer and a creamy interior that never fails to satisfy the taste buds.
With multiple locations to choose from, Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q has garnered a reputation for delivering top-notch sides that complement their renowned barbecue dishes. The mac and cheese, in particular, has become a fan favorite for its impeccable texture and flavor profile. The dish embodies the essence of comfort food, drawing patrons in with its simplicity, richness, and nostalgic appeal.
One satisfied customer, Jeffery Compton of Armour House in Birmingham, AL, holds a special affinity for the mac and cheese served at Cracker Barrel. To him, this dish epitomizes the essence of comfort food with its straightforward yet indulgent nature. What truly sets Cracker Barrel’s mac and cheese apart is its unwavering consistency. Each serving is crafted with precision, ensuring that the flavors and textures are perfectly balanced every single time.
Compton praises the creamy, velvety cheese sauce that envelops every strand of pasta, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalize the palate. The distinct sharpness and tanginess of the cheese blend add depth to the dish, elevating it to a level that truly stands out amongst its peers. For those seeking a reliable and satisfying mac and cheese experience, Cracker Barrel proves to be a consistent choice that never disappoints.
In a culinary landscape where side dishes can often be overlooked, the dedication of establishments like Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Cracker Barrel to perfecting classics like mac and cheese does not go unnoticed. These restaurants have mastered the art of creating memorable side dishes that leave a lasting impression on diners, ensuring that every meal is a delightful experience from start to finish.
For those in search of the best mac and cheese offerings, the glowing reviews of Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Cracker Barrel serve as a testament to the exceptional quality and consistency found at these establishments. Whether you prefer the crispy top layer and creamy interior of Jim ‘N Nick’s version or the comforting familiarity of Cracker Barrel’s rendition, both restaurants have undoubtedly earned their places as beloved destinations for mac and cheese enthusiasts.
As diners continue to seek out exceptional side dishes that enhance their dining experiences, the mac and cheese offerings at Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q and Cracker Barrel stand out as shining examples of culinary excellence. With each bite, patrons are treated to a symphony of flavors and textures that showcase the skill and dedication of these esteemed establishments.
