Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
Introduction
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food! One dish that always steals the show is Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. This dish is perfect to bring everyone together around the table and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese? It’s easy and quick to whip up, even in the midst of holiday chaos! This mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults love. Plus, it adds a comforting touch to your Thanksgiving feast. Every bite is filled with warmth and joy!
How to Make Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until everything is melted.
- Add the cooked macaroni, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- If you want, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for crunch.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
Once your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is baked to perfection, serve it hot right from the oven. It’s wonderful on its own or as a side dish with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving dishes. Don’t forget to let everyone know it’s ready; they’ll come running!
How to Store Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), let the mac and cheese cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or oven before serving again.
Tips to Make Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese
- Make sure to cook the macaroni just until it’s al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- For a little extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or veggies like broccoli or peas.
- If you like it extra cheesy, feel free to toss in more cheese!
Variation
You can easily make this recipe your own. Try adding spices like cayenne pepper for some heat or mix different types of cheese, like gouda or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I freeze Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese?
Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat from frozen, adding some extra milk to keep it creamy.
3. What should I do if my cheese isn’t melting well?
Make sure to remove the mixture from heat before adding the cheese. If it’s still clumpy, add a splash of milk while stirring until melted and smooth.
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your home. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for gatherings, especially during the festive season!
