Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese is a warm, baked Southern comfort dish that many people love at home. I was excited when I saw Danni Rose make her famous version on TikTok.

This Southern baked mac and cheese is not like the box stuff. It uses real cheese, chicken stock, and egg custard method.

Danni Rose shares “ole skool” comfort food recipes on her channel called Juke Joint Comfort Food. Her danni rose mac and cheese recipe went viral because it looks so creamy and cheesy.

People love watching that cheese pull when she scoops it out. The special part is how she layers the pasta, cheese, and custard.

Then she bakes it all in a cast iron skillet. The chicken stock adds flavor to the noodles. The eggs help everything hold together.

This copycat Danni Rose mac and cheese recipe lets you enjoy the same creamy & cheesy dish right at home.

Why Is Danni Rose’s Mac and Cheese So Popular Online

1. TikTok Fame: Danni Rose’s mac and cheese became very popular on TikTok and YouTube. Millions of people watched her videos.
2. Cheese Pull Videos: Everyone loves watching melted cheese stretch and pull. Her videos show the soft, creamy cheese perfectly.
3. Triple Cheese Blend: She uses three types of cheese: cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone. The mix creates amazing flavor.
4. Simple Steps: Danni Rose explains every step clearly. She uses simple ingredients and tools. Anyone can follow along and succeed.
5. Trusted Creator: Danni Rose knows Southern cooking. She shares real family recipes. People trust her because she cooks with care and keeps it real.

Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni – Elbow macaroni works best because it holds the cheese sauce well. You can use shells or cavatappi too.
• 4 cups chicken stock – Chicken stock adds flavor to the noodles while they cook. You can use vegetable broth instead.

The Cheese Layer:

• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese gives the most flavor. Sharp cheddar works best. Mild cheddar works too.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella cheese makes the mac and cheese stretchy and gooey. You can use Monterey Jack instead.
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese – Provolone cheese adds a mild, creamy taste. Swiss cheese can work as a backup.

For the Custard Mixture:

• 3 large eggs – Eggs help the mac and cheese set and stay creamy.
• 2 cups heavy cream – Heavy cream makes everything rich and smooth. Half-and-half can work but it will be less creamy.
• 1 cup whole milk – Whole milk thins out the custard just enough. Two percent milk works fine too.
• 1 cup sour cream – Sour cream adds tang and extra creaminess. Plain Greek yogurt can substitute.

Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon paprika – Paprika gives color and a tiny bit of smoky flavor. Does not add spice.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder adds savory depth. Onion flakes can work in a pinch.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder boosts flavor without being too strong. Fresh minced garlic can substitute.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Salt enhances all the flavors. Since the chicken stock has salt, you do not need much more.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Black pepper adds a little kick. You can skip this.

Layering and Baking:

• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter – Butter keeps the pasta moist and adds richness. Salted butter works if you cut back on salt.

Equipment & Tools Needed

• Large stock pot – Boiling pasta
• Colander – Draining pasta
• Mixing bowls – Cheese and custard
• Whisk – Custard mixing
• Cast iron skillet or 9×13 pan – Baking dish
• Measuring cups – Accurate portions
• Wooden spoon – Gentle mixing

How to Make Danni Rose Mac and Cheese

Step 1 | Boil the Pasta in Chicken Stock

Pour the chicken stock into a large pot and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 7 minutes until al dente. The pasta should be tender but still slightly firm.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta in a colander without rinsing and return it to the warm pot.

Step 2 | Prepare Ingredients While Pasta Cooks

While the pasta is cooking, shred all your cheeses and set them aside. Measure out the butter, sour cream, and seasonings. Having everything ready will make the process quick and smooth.

Step 3 | Add Butter and Sour Cream

Immediately add one stick of butter to the hot drained pasta. Stir gently until melted.

Add the sour cream and mix lightly until creamy. Avoid over-stirring to keep the pasta from becoming gummy.

Step 4 | Season the Pasta

Sprinkle in paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Gently mix until the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 5 | Add the Cheese

Gradually add about three cups of mixed provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese, one cup at a time. Stir gently after each addition until the pasta is well coated and creamy.

Step 6 | Make the Custard Mixture

In a medium bowl, crack three eggs. Add heavy cream and whole milk. Whisk until smooth and fully combined. This custard will help the mac and cheese set while baking.

Step 7 | Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a cast iron skillet or 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter, coating the bottom and sides well.

Step 8 | Begin Layering

Spread about 1½ cups of cheesy pasta into the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle 1½ cups of mixed cheese on top.

Pour about one cup of the custard mixture over the cheese so it seeps into the pasta.

Step 9 | Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layering process: pasta, cheese, and custard. Continue until all the pasta is used. Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Sprinkle paprika over the top for color. Pour any remaining custard evenly over the dish.

Step 10 | Bake the Mac and Cheese

Place the dish in the oven and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

A deeper dish may take closer to 1 hour. The top should be golden brown, the edges bubbly, and the center fully set.

Step 11 | Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes. This allows the custard to fully set. Slice, serve, and enjoy the rich, creamy layers and perfect cheese pull.

Pro Tips & Chef Secrets

• Room Temperature Eggs – Using eggs at room temperature helps the custard mix smoothly and keeps it soft while baking.
• Cheese Balance – Mixing sharp, mild, and stretchy cheeses gives better flavor and smooth texture.
• Resting Time – Letting the dish rest helps the layers set and keeps the slices neat.
• Pan Size Choice – Medium-size pans bake evenly and help the center cook well.
• Moisture Control – Light foil cover halfway through baking keeps the top soft and the inside creamy.

Stovetop vs. Baked

You can prepare mac and cheese on the stovetop or bake it in the oven, and both ways give different results.

When you cook it on the stovetop, you get a soft and creamy pasta that stays loose with melted cheese. It is quick, and you can eat it right away.

When you bake it, you allow the egg custard to set inside the pasta layers.

This helps the dish hold its shape when sliced. You also get a golden top layer with deeper flavor.

The baked version takes more time, but you get a thick and firm texture that many people prefer.

The stovetop version is great for fast meals, while the baked one gives that classic Southern-style finish.

What Goes Well with Danni Rose Mac and Cheese

This mac and cheese pairs well with baked chicken, fried catfish, collard greens, cornbread, or simple garden salad.

I like adding roasted vegetables for balance. You may enjoy sweet tea or lemonade on the side.

Warm rolls and green beans also match well. Each side brings color and flavor to the plate. The rich cheese needs light sides to balance each bite.

You can mix textures with crisp salads or tender meats. Every option helps create a full meal that feels comforting and satisfying from start to finish.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips

Make-Ahead Tips: You can assemble the entire dish, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and put it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

When you are ready to eat, you may need to add 10 to 15 minutes to the bake time since you are starting from cold.

Storage Process: Let the baked mac and cheese cool down completely. Put any leftovers in an airtight container.

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The custard keeps the pasta from getting too soft.

Reheating Methods: To reheat, put a portion in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.

For the best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until it is hot in the middle.

Danni Rose Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

1. Can this dish be frozen after baking?

Yes, baked mac and cheese freezes well. Cool fully before wrapping tightly in freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheat covered at 325°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore moisture and creaminess. Texture remains rich and comforting after proper reheating.

2. Why cook the pasta in chicken stock?

Chicken stock adds flavor inside the pasta. Plain water cannot add savory depth. Stock helps the noodles absorb seasoning during cooking. This creates layers of taste from the inside out.

Vegetable broth also works well. This simple step makes the finished dish richer, fuller, and more satisfying with every bite.

3. Can low-fat dairy be used?

Low-fat dairy reduces richness and creaminess. Whole milk, heavy cream, and full-fat sour cream create smooth texture. Low-fat substitutes may lead to thinner consistency and weaker flavor.

Adding extra cheese can help restore richness. For best results, full-fat ingredients provide the classic Southern comfort texture.

4. Can this recipe be doubled for larger portions?

Yes, doubling works well. Use a larger baking pan and extend baking time by 15–20 minutes. Layer ingredients carefully. Monitor doneness by checking the center.

The custard should appear set and the top lightly golden. Larger batches still deliver rich flavor when baked evenly.

5. How do I prevent dryness?

Avoid overbaking. Cover loosely during reheating. Add a splash of milk before warming. Proper layering helps hold moisture.

Balanced dairy and gentle baking ensure soft texture without dryness. These steps maintain creaminess even after storage.

6. Why rest after baking?

Ten minutes sets custard firm. Cuts easier, less runny. Flavors blend deep. Skip and it spills. Patience pays off big. Server loves clean slices.

7. My mac always turns out dry. What am I doing wrong?

You might be overbaking it. Check it at 45 minutes. The center should still have a tiny jiggle. It firms up as it cools.

Also make sure your custard amounts are right and your pasta is not overcooked before baking. Dry pasta soaks up more liquid in the oven.

This Danni Rose mac and cheese recipe shares true Southern baking methods in any kitchen. Its rich custard and deep flavor from chicken stock honor old-school traditions of homemade comfort cooking.

This dish stands as a special nod to everyone who loves real, homemade comfort food made with care.