Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese: Ingredients and Method

Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese is a pasta dish with a creamy, tangy cheese sauce and a crispy, buttery cracker topping.

Originating from Mike’s Farm in Beulaville, North Carolina, this recipe combines sharp cheddar cheese, rich mayonnaise, and sour cream to deliver an indulgent, unforgettable comfort food.

Whether for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals, this pasta is the perfect blend of texture and flavor that stands out from traditional mac and cheese recipes.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese with a rich blend of cheddar, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Includes a full ingredient list, step-by-step method, and tips for the perfect golden cracker topping.

What makes Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese unique?

Uses of mayonnaise and sour cream adds tang and creaminess, topped with buttery crushed crackers for crunch, makes Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese unique from other mac and cheese.

Unlike classic baked mac and cheese, which often relies on a custard-style base, Mike’s Farm recipe incorporates mayonnaise and sour cream. This combination creates a velvety texture with a subtle tang, enriching the cheese sauce beyond simple cream or milk. The dish finishes with a layer of crushed buttery crackers, most commonly Ritz crackers, which form a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the smooth interior.

What ingredients are needed for Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese?

Essential ingredients include elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Ritz crackers.

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup full-fat mayonnaise (Duke’s brand is preferred for authenticity)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (for buttery, fine crumb topping)

To deepen the flavor, some cooks add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder, which enhances the savory profile and complements the creamy tang.

Method

Cook pasta al dente, blend creamy cheese sauce, assemble with cracker topping, and bake until golden.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the elbow macaroni until just al dente, then drain well to avoid excess moisture.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded sharp cheddar, full-fat mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy—this mixture forms the rich base of the dish.
4. Fold the cooked macaroni gently into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
6. Evenly sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers over the top to create the iconic crunchy crust.
7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese sauce bubbles and the cracker topping turns a beautiful golden brown.

Baking at this temperature locks in moisture while allowing the topping to crisp perfectly.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, but substitutions may change texture and flavor noticeably.

Common alternatives include:

• Mixing mozzarella with sharp cheddar can create a meltier texture but softens sharpness.
• Using low-fat mayonnaise or sour cream reduces creaminess, affecting the dish’s signature tang.
• Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes can replace Ritz crackers but lack the buttery flavor that defines the crust.

Adjust substitutions carefully to maintain a balance between creaminess and crunch.

What dishes pair well with Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese?

Serve alongside fried chicken, collard greens, or pulled pork for a complete Southern meal.

• Crispy fried chicken adds a savory crunch that complements the creamy pasta.
• Fresh collard greens or sautéed green beans bring brightness and balance.
• Pulled pork or baked ham adds hearty, smoky notes, rounding out the plate with protein and flavor.

These pairings enhance the comfort-food experience and showcase classic Southern flavors.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers up to four days; reheat covered at 325°F to preserve moisture and creaminess.

Store any leftovers in airtight containers or cover your baking dish tightly. Before reheating, stir in a small spoonful of sour cream or mayonnaise to restore creaminess. Heat in a 325°F oven, covered, which keeps the mac and cheese moist and prevents the topping from drying out. Short microwave bursts also work for quick reheats. Avoid freezing, as mayonnaise-based dishes often separate and lose texture when thawed.

Is this the official Mike’s Farm recipe?

While Mike’s Farm hasn’t released an official recipe, this version reflects a widely accepted recreation.

Inspired by regional food blogs, Southern food enthusiasts, and visitor testimonials, this recipe captures the key elements that make Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese beloved: the creamy mayonnaise and sour cream base, sharp cheddar richness, and buttery cracker crust. It honors the original’s flavor and texture while offering practical guidance for home cooks.

Why is Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese so popular?

It’s a perfect balance of creamy richness and crunchy topping that creates irresistible comfort food.

The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream adds a tangy creaminess uncommon in typical mac and cheese recipes. The crunchy buttery cracker topping introduces a satisfying texture contrast, making every bite both smooth and crisp. This balance has made it a favorite across the South and beyond.

Final Thoughts

Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese is a standout Southern classic with a creamy, tangy sauce and a crisp cracker topping.

Using high-quality, sharp cheddar, full-fat mayonnaise, and buttery Ritz crackers is key to achieving the authentic taste and texture. Follow the baking instructions closely for a bubbly, golden finish. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners where true comfort food shines.

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