Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese is the dish that turns every family gathering into a joyous feast. Picture this: creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, topped with a golden-brown crust that invites you to dive right in. cheesy appetizer option The aroma wafts through the house like an embrace, promising warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
It’s not just a side dish; it’s an experience packed with nostalgia. I recall my childhood Thanksgivings, where this creamy delight stole the spotlight from the turkey. Friends and family would gather around the table, laughter echoing as we passed around the mac and cheese like it was the secret to happiness itself. perfect side for Thanksgiving Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply craving comfort food on a chilly evening, this recipe delivers mouthwatering flavor with every spoonful.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese is super easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks. The flavor profiles of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella will have everyone coming back for seconds. The visual appeal of gooey cheese bubbling over a crispy topping makes it irresistible. Versatile enough to be a main dish or a comforting side, it’s sure to please all palates. [/info_box]
I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin declared he was too full for dessert but devoured three servings of this mac and cheese instead.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious dip for gatherings.
Elbow Macaroni: Opt for high-quality pasta that holds its shape well during baking.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose extra sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that stands out.
Moisture-rich Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; skim just won’t cut it here.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter to control salt levels in your dish.
All-purpose Flour: Helps create that smooth cheese sauce; don’t skimp on whisking!
Panko Bread Crumbs: For a crunchy topping that adds texture contrast.
Ground Mustard Powder: A little pinch elevates the cheese flavors without overpowering them.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
Garlic Powder: Just a dash brings everything together with savory richness. For more inspiration, check out this Rosemary Garlic White Bean Soup recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth of flavor and elevates your baked mac and cheese experience.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add salt generously before adding elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In another saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat until bubbly but not browned. Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in whole milk while whisking continuously. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon—about 5-7 minutes should do it.
Melt in Cheeses: Reduce heat to low and stir in sharp cheddar cheese along with mozzarella until melted entirely into your silky sauce. Add ground mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold your cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce gently until every piece is beautifully coated. Transfer this heavenly mixture into a greased baking dish.
Add Topping: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over top of your mac masterpiece along with grated Parmesan cheese for an irresistible crunch. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Now that you know how to whip up this delightful Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese, get ready for compliments! Your guests will be raving about this comforting classic for years to come. sweet Thanksgiving dessert Enjoy!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese isn’t just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl. Creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy topping creates a comforting experience that warms hearts and fills bellies. The aroma of bubbling cheese will make your guests swoon! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling pasta until al dente, then prep your cheese sauce while the pasta cooks. This sequence ensures everything melds together perfectly without overcooking any ingredients.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses based on your preferences or add breadcrumbs for crunch. Try adding sautéed vegetables or spices for an extra flavor punch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat by baking at 350°F until heated through, ensuring that the top stays crispy.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Always taste your cheese sauce before mixing with pasta; adjusting seasoning makes a huge difference in flavor. Use fresh cheeses when possible for creaminess and depth. Bake uncovered to achieve that perfect crunchy top everyone loves! [/info_box]
Creating my first Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese was like running a marathon—exciting but nerve-wracking. Guests devoured it with smiles, and I still hear about it! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup recipe.
FAQ
What cheeses work best for Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese?
Mix sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère for a creamy, flavorful combination.
Can I prepare Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day prior and bake just before serving.
How do I make my mac and cheese extra creamy?
Add more milk or cream to your cheese sauce for ultimate creaminess.
Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that transforms any gathering into a heartwarming feast. With its creamy cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni and a crispy golden topping, this dish is sure to steal the show at your holiday table. Perfect for both casual dinners and festive occasions, this delightful mac and cheese recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser, evoking nostalgia with every delicious bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp ground mustard powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk until thickened (5-7 minutes).
- Lower heat and mix in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Add seasonings.
- Combine pasta with cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
