Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
There’s nothing more comforting on Thanksgiving than a bubbling, golden-topped dish of creamy mac and cheese. This hearty recipe takes the classic comfort food you love and elevates it with rich flavors, perfect for your holiday table.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 35 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for extra twist)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Drain and set aside. Pro tip: Slightly undercooking ensures the pasta won’t get mushy while baking.
Step 2: Make the roux
In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until it forms a golden paste. This creates the base of your creamy cheese sauce.
Step 3: Add the liquids
Gradually pour in the warm milk and cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 5–6 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Season the sauce
Whisk in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices add warmth and depth to balance the richness of the cheeses.
Step 5: Melt the cheeses
Turn off the heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan until smooth and velvety. The blend of cheeses makes this dish unforgettable!
Step 6: Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated in that luscious, creamy mixture.
Step 7: Prepare the topping
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and the remaining Parmesan. This creates the irresistible golden crust.
Step 8: Bake it up
Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 9: Garnish and serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is ready to wow the crowd!
Pro Tips
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble the dish the day before Thanksgiving, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve.
- Cheese Swap Options – Try smoked gouda for extra flavor or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
- Crispy Topper Upgrade – Add crumbled bacon or fried onions to the breadcrumb topping for a festive twist.
Nutrition Info (per serving)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 460 | 19g | 38g | 24g | 2g | 5g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary depending on specific ingredients used. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Why This Mac and Cheese Belongs on Your Thanksgiving Table
Thanksgiving often shines a spotlight on turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, but adding a creamy baked mac and cheese gives your feast a cozy touch. Kids and adults both flock to it, and it pairs beautifully with roasted meats and seasonal veggies. The mix of cheeses and crispy topping makes it indulgent enough for the holiday but easy enough to whip up for any weeknight.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is more than just a side dish—it’s a holiday tradition waiting to happen. With its creamy base, gooey cheese blend, and crunchy topping, it’s a dish your family will request year after year. Pair it with your turkey and sides, or enjoy it as the star of a cozy weeknight dinner.