There’s something magical about the aroma of creamy, cheesy goodness wafting through the air, isn’t there? Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese is not just a dish; it’s a hug on a plate, with noodles enveloped in a blanket of melted cheese that’s so gooey it could probably win an Olympic gold medal for flexibility. variation on mac and cheese Picture yourself digging into this velvety masterpiece, where each bite feels like a warm embrace on a chilly holiday evening.
Growing up, my family would gather around the table, and as soon as the Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese made its grand entrance, you’d hear gasps and see forks poised in the air like they were ready to dive into treasure. It was always the showstopper at our feasts, sparking joy and laughter as we reminisced about funny family moments. perfect side dishes for Thanksgiving This dish is perfect for those heartwarming gatherings when you want to impress your guests without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese combines simplicity with unbeatable flavor, making meal prep a breeze
- The creamy texture and rich taste will keep everyone coming back for seconds
- Its beautiful golden crust adds visual appeal to any holiday spread
- Versatile enough to accommodate various cheeses based on your preference or pantry staples
I still remember the first time I attempted this recipe for friends. Their eyes lit up like Christmas lights when they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to use any pasta shape that tickles your fancy. additional creamy pasta dishes.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that classic flavor; don’t skimp here for maximum cheesiness.
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Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but you can substitute with low-fat if you’re feeling health-conscious.
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Butter: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible cheese sauce base.
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Flour: All-purpose flour thickens your cheese sauce perfectly; no lumps allowed!
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Breadcrumbs: A must for that crunchy topping—panko works wonders if you’re feeling adventurous. accompanying bread options.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget to taste along the way!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add salt before tossing in your pasta. Cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes; it should have a bit of bite left.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter before whisking in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk while stirring constantly until thickened.
Add the Cheeses: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until thoroughly melted and gooey. Feel free to add other cheeses for extra flavor!
Mix Everything Together: Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce in the baking dish, ensuring every noodle gets coated in cheesy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this ravioli sauce recipe recipe.
Add Toppings and Bake: Top with breadcrumbs for crunch before placing your dish in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
And there you have it! Your Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese is now ready to steal the show! Just remember—this recipe may cause spontaneous happiness among family members and friends alike! Enjoy each gooey bite while sharing laughs around the table! For more inspiration, check out this jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole recipe.
You Must Know
- This Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese is not just a side dish; it’s the star of the show!
- The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a holiday favorite
- The irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then prepare the cheese sauce while it cooks. Combine everything in a baking dish for optimal melting.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses or add spices for extra flavor. You can even toss in some crispy bacon or breadcrumbs for added crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep that creamy texture intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Gruyère for depth of flavor
- Don’t skip the breadcrumbs—they add a delightful crunch!
- Always taste and adjust seasoning to your preference before baking
Sharing this Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese recipe brings back memories of my family gathered around the table, all eagerly waiting for their favorite dish to be served.
FAQ
Can I make Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it earlier in the day and bake just before serving.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère adds fantastic flavor and texture.
How do I prevent my mac and cheese from being dry?
Ensure you use enough sauce, and cover with foil while baking until bubbly.
Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Thanksgiving Baked Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. This dish features al dente pasta enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect for gatherings, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to customize with your favorite cheeses or add-ins, this recipe is a must for any Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce in the baking dish.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 384
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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