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Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 22 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, cheesy comfort dish perfect for holiday gatherings. Featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, enhanced with heavy cream and butter for extra indulgence. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, this classic side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser on your Thanksgiving table.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup butter

Topping

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs


Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the heavy cream, warming it gently. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
  4. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top to create a crunchy topping.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crispy, and the mac and cheese is heated through.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or garlic powder to the cheese sauce.
  • If you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • To make the breadcrumb topping more flavorful, toss it with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
  • Make sure to stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning or becoming grainy.
  • Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and taste.