Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese: 10 Easy, Best Recipes

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Dish
• Why These Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese: 10 Easy, Best Recipes Are Essential
• Key Ingredients for Amazing Mac and Cheese
• 10 Delicious Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipes
• Recipe 1: Classic Creamy Mac
• Recipe 2: Smoked Gouda Mac
• Tips for the Perfect Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
• Serving Suggestions and Pairings
• Make-Ahead Instructions and Storage
• Nutritional Information
• F.A.Q

Welcome to the ultimate guide for Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese: 10 Easy, Best Recipes! Get ready to elevate your holiday feast with the creamiest, cheesiest side dish that everyone will adore. This collection focuses on making your holiday cooking stress-free and delicious.

Forget the same old side dishes this year. Our specially curated Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipes are designed to be showstoppers, bringing comfort and joy to your family table. Let’s dive into making your Thanksgiving extra special!

Introduction: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Dish

Thanksgiving dinner is a feast of traditions, but every year offers a chance to make beloved dishes even better. Mac and cheese, with its comforting embrace, has become an indispensable part of many holiday spreads.

It’s more than just a side; it’s a centerpiece of comfort food. We’re here to help you master the art of this cheesy delight, ensuring your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is the star of the meal.

Why These Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese: 10 Easy, Best Recipes Are Essential

What makes these recipes stand out? We’ve focused on flavor, ease, and that irresistible creamy texture. Each recipe is tried and true, promising a consistently delicious outcome.

From classic comforting versions to gourmet twists, these holiday side dishes offer variety without sacrificing quality. They are perfect for both seasoned chefs and holiday cooking newbies.

Key Ingredients for Amazing Mac and Cheese

The secret to incredible mac and cheese lies in quality ingredients. Starting with the right cheese, pasta, and dairy makes all the difference.

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells, cavatappi, or orecchiette also work wonderfully, holding onto that rich sauce.
• Cheese: A blend is always best! Sharp cheddar for tang, Gruyere for nuttiness, Monterey Jack for meltiness, and a touch of cream cheese for extra creaminess are excellent choices.
• Dairy: Whole milk, heavy cream, and sometimes even evaporated milk contribute to a lusciously smooth sauce.
• Roux: Butter and flour form the essential base, thickening your sauce perfectly.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, and a touch of mustard powder can elevate your cheese sauce to new heights.

10 Delicious Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipes

Here, we highlight two fantastic options to get you started on your cheesy journey. Remember, these are just a taste of the ten incredible recipes awaiting you!

Recipe 1: Classic Creamy Mac

This timeless recipe is a crowd-pleaser, delivering pure, unadulterated comfort. It’s the perfect entry point for anyone wanting to make a truly amazing Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warm
• 1 tsp dry mustard powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a thick paste (roux) forms.
4. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in mustard powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
7. Fold in the cooked macaroni. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe 2: Smoked Gouda Mac

For those who love a sophisticated, smoky twist on a classic, this recipe is a must-try. The richness of smoked Gouda adds incredible depth of flavor to your cheese recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cavatappi pasta
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 6 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Panko breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook cavatappi according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in smoked Gouda and white cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.
7. Fold in the cooked cavatappi and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Pour into the prepared baking dish. Top with a generous sprinkle of Panko breadcrumbs.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese

Achieving mac and cheese perfection is easy with these simple tips. A little attention to detail goes a long way!

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents mushy results, ensuring perfect pasta recipes.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. Freshly shredded cheese melts much smoother for the best creamy mac and cheese.
• Warm Your Milk: Adding warm milk to your roux helps prevent lumps and ensures a smoother sauce.
• Season Thoughtfully: Don’t forget salt, pepper, and those secret ingredients like nutmeg or mustard powder to enhance the cheese flavor.
• Don’t Skimp on the Roux: A properly cooked roux is crucial for thickening your cheese sauce without making it too thin or too gloopy.

For even more dessert ideas to complement your holiday meal, Read our in-depth guide here.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many holiday classics. It’s a wonderful addition to any festive spread for Thanksgiving dinner.

Serve it alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, green bean casserole, or cranberry sauce. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can also provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich mac and cheese. For more expert tips on pairing, check out Serious Eats’ Baked Mac & Cheese Guide.

Make-Ahead Instructions and Storage

Holiday cooking can be hectic, so knowing how to prepare dishes in advance is a game-changer. Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipes are excellent for make-ahead prep.

To Make Ahead: Prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, add 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold, or let it come to room temperature first.

Storage: Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

Nutritional Information

Please note that nutritional values can vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. This information is an estimate based on standard ingredients for one serving of Classic Creamy Mac and Cheese (approximately 1 cup).

• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Fat: 25-35g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Cholesterol: 70-90mg
• Sodium: 600-800mg
• Carbohydrates: 35-45g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugars: 3-5g
• Protein: 20-25g

These values are provided for general guidance. Consult a certified nutritionist for precise dietary advice tailored to your needs.

F.A.Q

Can I use different types of pasta for Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, other shapes like shells, cavatappi, or penne work beautifully. Choose a pasta that can hold plenty of that delicious cheese sauce.

What’s the best way to prevent my mac and cheese from drying out?

The key is a well-made, sufficiently creamy cheese sauce and not overbaking. Using a good mix of melting cheeses, a touch of cream, and covering your dish during the initial baking can help retain moisture. Don’t forget to undercook your pasta slightly!

Can Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese be frozen?

Yes, it can be frozen, though the texture might change slightly upon reheating. Freeze unbaked mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Baked leftovers can also be frozen, but reheating might yield a softer texture.