Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese combines two beloved comfort foods—mac and cheese and Thanksgiving dinner—into one mouthwatering dish. It’s incredibly creamy, rich, and cheesy, with a crispy breadcrumb topping that adds the perfect crunch. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or looking for a new dish to add to your holiday spread, this mac and cheese recipe is simple yet delicious. Kids and adults alike will be coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Directions
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Cook the macaroni: Follow the package instructions to cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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Prepare the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and both the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy cheese sauce.
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Assemble the dish: Transfer the cheesy macaroni to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top with breadcrumbs to form a crunchy layer.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage for an extra savory touch.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
- Make it spicier: Add some cayenne pepper, paprika, or crushed red pepper flakes to give your mac and cheese a little kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the mac and cheese in a covered dish and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
1. Can I make Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese the day before, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.
2. Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked mac and cheese. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
3. How can I make the mac and cheese spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for some heat.
4. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free elbow macaroni to make this dish gluten-free.
5. Can I make this dish without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed crackers, panko, or even grated cheese for the topping.
6. How do I know when the mac and cheese is done baking?
The mac and cheese is done when the breadcrumb topping is golden and crispy, and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.
7. Can I use non-dairy milk or butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond milk, and use dairy-free butter to make the dish dairy-free.
8. What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar and Parmesan?
Try using Gruyère, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
9. Is this mac and cheese a good dish for Thanksgiving?
Absolutely! It’s a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving dishes.
10. Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or roasted butternut squash for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food for your holiday meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked with a crunchy breadcrumb topping that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re adding it as a side dish or making it the star of your Thanksgiving spread, it’s a simple yet delicious way to elevate your holiday feast.
Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is the ultimate holiday comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy golden breadcrumbs, this baked mac and cheese is the perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving table. Made with rich cheddar and Parmesan cheese, it’s an easy and indulgent addition to your holiday feast. Whether paired with turkey or enjoyed on its own, this recipe will be a crowd favorite at your holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until smooth and fully melted.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
- Assemble: Transfer to a greased baking dish and evenly sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- If making ahead, refrigerate before baking and bake when ready to serve.
