If there’s ever a time to bring out the big, cheesy guns, Thanksgiving is it. Enter this irresistible Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe—a golden, bubbling dish that’s not only rich, creamy, and packed with a trio of cheeses, but also has a buttery, crunchy topping that’ll compete with all the classics on your holiday table. Whether you’re a lifelong mac and cheese devotee or just testing the waters, this recipe offers a flavor-packed, elevated twist that feels equal parts comforting and festive. If you’re looking to win over every cousin, uncle, and toddler at the table, this is your move!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a dish this warm and welcoming, you only need a handful of everyday staples—but each one is carefully chosen to play a key role. Together, these ingredients deliver that perfect balance of velvety sauce, robust flavor, and a mouthwatering crust no guest can resist.
- Elbow Macaroni: These familiar curves hold onto plenty of cheese sauce, making every bite extra satisfying.
- Unsalted Butter: Needed for both the creamy sauce base and the crispy topping; control the salt level yourself!
- All-Purpose Flour: Whisked with butter to form the roux, thickening your cheese sauce just right.
- Whole Milk: Gives the sauce body and richness—don’t skimp here, it’s worth it for that classic creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream: Adds lushness for a decadent cheese pull in every panful.
- Dijon Mustard: A little sharpness to wake up all the cheesy goodness—trust me, don’t skip it!
- Garlic Powder: Subtle background flavor that shines through without overwhelming.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic and boosts overall savory notes.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a whisper of smokiness and vivid color for that holiday-worthy look.
- Salt and Pepper: Customizes the flavor—always taste and adjust before baking.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded): The main character—melty, flavorful, and never boring.
- Gruyère Cheese (shredded): This nutty, melty cheese makes the sauce extra sophisticated.
- Parmesan Cheese (grated): Depth, tang, and a slightly salty finish—perfect in both sauce and topping.
- Seasoned Breadcrumbs: Give that signature golden crust and a delicate crunch.
- Melted Butter: Binds the breadcrumbs for evenly crisp, flavorful topping.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): For a fresh, festive sprinkle just before serving.
How to Make Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil—the salt makes all the difference in flavoring the macaroni itself. Cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente, which is usually about 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Remember, the pasta will cook more in the oven, so slightly undercooking it now keeps it perfectly tender later. Drain and set aside while you prepare your sauce.
Step 2: Build the Cheese Sauce Base
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s foamy but not browned. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1 or 2 minutes—just long enough to lose the raw flour taste but not so long it changes color. You’re setting the stage for a creamy, silky sauce!
Step 3: Add Milk and Cream
Slowly pour in your whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Let this mixture bubble gently for about 5–7 minutes, whisking often, until it noticeably thickens. This is where that luscious, restaurant-worthy texture begins to form.
Step 4: Season and Add Cheese
Remove your thickened sauce from the heat and stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Once everything’s smooth and aromatic, add in your cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan. Stir until every bit of cheese melts into the sauce; it should be smooth, velvety, and outrageously tempting!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the sauce and mix to coat every noodle—this is the Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe magic moment! Pour the cheesy mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, using a spatula to smooth out the top.
Step 6: Finish with Breadcrumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix together seasoned breadcrumbs and melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the mac and cheese for maximum crispy contrast. Every bite will be golden and irresistibly crunchy.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your masterpiece in a preheated 375°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges and gorgeously golden brown on top. Let the dish rest for five minutes before serving—it helps everything set and makes scooping easier. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like a pop of green.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Right before serving, try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a welcoming burst of color. You can also add a touch more Parmesan or an extra shake of smoked paprika on top. These little flourishes make your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe look as festive as it tastes!
Side Dishes
This robust, creamy mac and cheese loves to be paired with traditional Thanksgiving favorites like roast turkey, green beans, or cranberry sauce. The dish is rich, so something light and tangy—a salad with a citrusy vinaigrette, for example—makes a great balancing companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Level up your presentation by scooping the mac and cheese into individual ramekins, making it extra special for each guest. Or, for a playful twist, serve mini portions in hollowed-out squash or sweet pepper halves. However you serve it, your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe will be the star of the spread!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, and it reheats beautifully—perfect for a second round (or midnight snacking)!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For best texture, reheat leftover mac and cheese (thawed if frozen) in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. For single servings, the microwave works in a pinch. Add a splash of milk and cover to keep everything creamy and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I make this Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time to account for starting with a cold dish. This makes holiday prep so much easier!
What’s the best cheese blend for ultra-creamy mac and cheese?
For the richest flavor and melt, stick with the trio in this recipe: sharp cheddar for that classic tang, Gruyère for a nutty silkiness, and Parmesan for depth. You can experiment, but this combination makes the Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe truly special.
How can I add extra flavor?
Consider stirring in bits of crispy cooked bacon or caramelized onions, or add a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat. Fresh thyme or chives also bring another layer of flavor to your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional (and perfect for soaking up sauce), shapes like shells, cavatappi, or fusilli hold up great and keep things fun and interesting.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Indeed! This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe contains no meat or meat products. As always, check your cheese and breadcrumb ingredients if you’re cooking for someone with strict dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Trust me—once you try this Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe, your holiday table might never feel complete without it again. Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate gesture of love for family and friends. Don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe!
Print
Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, this dish is a must-have for your holiday table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Blend:
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, and cook macaroni until al dente. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk and cream, then season with mustard, spices, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted. Mix in macaroni and transfer to baking dish.
- Add Topping and Bake: Combine breadcrumbs with butter, sprinkle over mac and cheese, bake for 20–25 minutes until golden. Rest and garnish before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked crumbled bacon, caramelized onions, or a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
- You can assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate—just bake an additional 10 minutes if chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
