Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, and Perfect for the Holiday Table

Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and indulgent comfort foods. Among the many dishes that grace the holiday table, mac and cheese has earned a special place in hearts and kitchens alike.

It is creamy, cheesy, and rich, offering the perfect balance between indulgence and nostalgia. The dish has the power to bring together generations, with its warm aroma filling the home and its rich flavors creating memories that last long after the holiday ends.

Ingredients Needed

The following ingredients create a creamy, flavorful Thanksgiving mac and cheese. Each ingredient contributes to both taste and texture. The table below also provides the approximate calorie count per serving.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories per Serving
Elbow macaroni	12 ounces	210
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup	200
All-purpose flour	1/2 cup	200
Whole milk	4 cups	150
Heavy cream	1 cup	200
Sharp cheddar cheese	2 cups shredded	220
Gruyere cheese	1 cup shredded	120
Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup grated	110
Cream cheese	4 ounces	100
Dijon mustard	1 teaspoon	5
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon	5
Paprika	1/2 teaspoon	5
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	1/2 teaspoon	5
Bread crumbs	1 cup	150

These ingredients work together to create a mac and cheese that is creamy, cheesy, and slightly crunchy on top when baked. Choosing high-quality cheeses is essential, as the flavor depends largely on the cheeses used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions but stop one minute before the pasta is fully done to avoid overcooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for two minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream to prevent lumps.Continue your cooking journey with Smoked Mac and Cheese right after this.
4. Add the cheeses to the sauce gradually. Start with cheddar and Gruyere, then add cream cheese and Parmesan. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
5. Season the sauce with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
6. Combine pasta and sauce by adding the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to ensure every piece is coated evenly.
7. Transfer to the baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the mac and cheese. For extra flavor, melt a small amount of butter and drizzle over the crumbs.
8. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
9. Cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese sauce to thicken and set slightly, making it easier to portion.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Adding your own twist to Thanksgiving mac and cheese can elevate it from traditional to unforgettable. Some options include:

• Spice it up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for warmth and depth.
• Mix in vegetables such as roasted butternut squash, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses by using fontina, Havarti, or mozzarella for a different creamy profile.
• Add proteins like shredded rotisserie chicken, crumbled bacon, or diced ham to make it more substantial.
• Use panko crumbs with herbs for a crunchier, aromatic topping. Mixing Parmesan into the breadcrumbs also intensifies the cheesy flavor.
• Infuse flavor by replacing some milk with half-and-half or adding a dash of nutmeg to the sauce.

These variations ensure the dish can cater to personal taste while still remaining a holiday favorite.

Nutritional Information

Thanksgiving mac and cheese is a rich dish, but understanding its nutritional profile helps in planning portion sizes. Approximate values per serving are:

The calorie count will vary depending on the cheeses and milk used, as well as portion size. Reducing butter or using lower-fat cheese can slightly decrease calories without sacrificing too much flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Thanksgiving mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of traditional dishes. Some suggestions include:

• Roasted turkey or baked ham for a hearty main course
• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for extra comfort
• Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for freshness and color
• Cranberry sauce or apple chutney to add a hint of sweetness
• Warm dinner rolls to complete the festive table

Presentation can elevate the dish as well. Serving mac and cheese in an attractive casserole dish or portioning it into individual ramekins can make it feel special and festive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Thanksgiving mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, it can be assembled a day in advance. Cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding 5 to 10 minutes to the cooking time.

What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but cavatappi or penne can hold more sauce and create a slightly different texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour in the sauce with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

How do I keep it creamy after baking?
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially and allow it to rest briefly after baking. Using a mix of cheeses with different melting points also helps maintain creaminess.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, place cooled mac and cheese in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving mac and cheese embodies warmth, indulgence, and the joy of shared meals. It is a dish that goes beyond simple comfort food, offering a rich combination of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and a golden crust that pleases both the eye and the palate.