Ah, Thanksgiving! A time for family, gratitude, and of course, the food! For me, nothing says “holiday spirit” quite like a big, bubbling dish of mac and cheese. Growing up, my family always had it on the table, nestled between the turkey and the cranberry sauce. I remember my grandma would make it from scratch, and the smell of melting cheese filled the house as we gathered around the dining table, eagerly waiting to dig in. It’s that creamy, cheesy goodness that brings everyone together, making each bite a warm hug. I promise, once you try this mac and cheese, it’ll become your go-to Thanksgiving staple too!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Making this mac and cheese is a breeze, and I’ll guide you through each step so you can whip it up with confidence. Just follow along, and you’ll have a deliciously cheesy dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want it nice and hot when you’re ready to bake!
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Trust me, you don’t want it too soft since it’ll bake more in the oven.
- Melt the butter: While the pasta is cooking, grab a saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown!
- Create the roux: Once the butter is melted, stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and bubbly, about a minute will do.
- Add the milk: Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously. You want to keep mixing until the sauce thickens up nicely. It should take about 5 minutes.
- Cheese time! Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into that luscious, gooey cheese sauce we’re all dreaming about.
- Combine: Now, take your cooked macaroni and fold it into the cheese sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness!
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly—this is where the magic happens!
- Bake: Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until you see it all bubbly and golden on top. Oh, the smell will be amazing!
And there you have it! Just let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and get ready for all the compliments!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture: This mac and cheese is ridiculously creamy, with every bite enveloped in luscious cheese sauce that just melts in your mouth.
- Comforting flavors: It’s the epitome of comfort food, bringing that warm, cozy feeling to your Thanksgiving table.
- Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up with minimal fuss, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday!
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist a good mac and cheese, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Make-ahead option: You can prep it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, reducing stress on the big day.
- Versatile: It’s a blank canvas! Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like bacon, veggies, or even a crunchy topping to elevate the dish.
- Thanksgiving tradition: This recipe is destined to become a cherished part of your Thanksgiving traditions, just like it is for me!
Tips for Success
To make sure your mac and cheese comes out perfectly cheesy and delicious, here are some of my favorite tips! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid any kitchen mishaps and elevate your dish to the next level.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember, you want that macaroni al dente since it’ll continue to cook in the oven. A little bite is perfect!
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Grating your own cheese will give you that silky, creamy sauce we all crave!
- Keep stirring: When you add the milk to your roux, stir continuously to avoid lumps. A smooth sauce is the key to a luscious mac and cheese!
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste your cheese sauce before mixing it with the macaroni. You might want to add a pinch more salt or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
- Experiment with toppings: For a crunchy finish, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking. You can even mix in herbs like thyme or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Let it rest: After baking, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help the sauce set up a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to impress your family and friends with the ultimate mac and cheese this Thanksgiving! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your mac and cheese! Here are some of my favorite variations that can add a delightful twist to your Thanksgiving classic:
- Different Cheeses: Mix it up by using a combination of cheeses! Try adding gouda for a smoky flavor, or fontina for an ultra-creamy texture. A little blue cheese can also give it a bold kick!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also add hot sauce into the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Veggie Delight: Sneak in some nutrition by adding cooked broccoli, spinach, or roasted butternut squash. They not only add color but also a lovely flavor that pairs well with the cheese.
- Bacon or Ham: For a savory, meaty addition, mix in crispy bacon bits or diced ham. It adds a delicious umami element that will have everyone going back for seconds!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your mac and cheese! Try stirring in some chopped basil, thyme, or even a hint of rosemary for a fragrant twist that complements the cheesy goodness.
- Crunchy Toppings: Go beyond breadcrumbs! Top your mac and cheese with crushed potato chips, crispy fried onions, or even a layer of panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for an irresistible crunch.
- Mac and Cheese Bake: For a heartier dish, layer your mac and cheese with cooked ground beef or sausage in a baking dish. It’s a comforting one-pan meal that’s perfect for the holidays!
Feel free to get creative and combine any of these ideas! The beauty of mac and cheese is its versatility—make it your own, and impress your guests with a unique twist on a beloved classic!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious mac and cheese leftovers? Lucky you! Storing and reheating it properly is key to keeping that creamy goodness intact. Here’s how I do it:
- Storing Leftovers: Let your mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation and keep it from getting soggy. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to save it for later, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat mac and cheese is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out and bake for about 20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit dry, stir in a splash of milk before covering it to bring back that creamy texture!
- Alternative Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave! Just place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps steam it), and heat it in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking. Just be careful not to overcook it, or you might end up with rubbery cheese!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your mac and cheese goodness for days. Trust me, it’s just as comforting the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This mac and cheese is undeniably delicious, but it’s good to know what you’re getting when you indulge. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. If you decide to add mix-ins or change up the cheese, the nutrition will shift a bit too. So, while this mac and cheese is creamy and comforting, feel free to enjoy it in moderation and make it your own! Happy cooking!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the best mac and cheese for Thanksgiving? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you like. Cavatappi, shells, or even penne work great too! Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If cheddar isn’t your thing, feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a sharp white cheddar can give you a deliciously different flavor. Just remember to combine cheeses for a richer taste!
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply swap out the regular elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. It should work just as beautifully!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can make the mac and cheese ahead of time. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
What should I serve with mac and cheese?
Mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with so many dishes! I love serving it alongside roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or even a fresh green salad for some balance. It’s a fantastic side dish that complements almost everything!
How can I make this mac and cheese spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce. You can also top it with some spicy breadcrumbs for an extra kick!
Can I freeze mac and cheese?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Hopefully, these FAQs help clear up any uncertainties you have about making your mac and cheese! If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!
Print
Mac and Cheese Thanksgiving: 7 Comforting Tips for Success
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and cheesy mac and cheese, perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
- Add milk gradually, stirring until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
- Pour mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
- For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs before baking.
- You can mix in cooked bacon or vegetables for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: mac and cheese thanksgiving
