Go Back
+ servings
Creamy Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese

Creamy Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese That'll Warm Your Heart

Creamy Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese brings warmth to your holiday table with its rich aroma and customizable flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni A classic pasta shape
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese Freshly grated
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated
  • 2 cups Whole Milk For a creamy sauce
  • 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter For the cheese sauce base
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour To thicken the sauce
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Delivers a delightful crunch

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Saucepan
  • whisk
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Directions
  1. Cook Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and let it cook for about 1 minute until slightly bubbly. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, around 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Cheeses: Lower the heat and stir in the sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine: Carefully fold the cooked macaroni into the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring each noodle is well-coated and enveloped in that luscious mixture.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs on top for that perfect crunch.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!