Description
Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese is the ultimate holiday comfort food, featuring creamy elbow macaroni enveloped in a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. This dish not only warms the heart but also brings family together around the table, making it an essential centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast. Simple to prepare and customizable with your favorite add-ins, this mac and cheese is sure to impress everyone at your gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour for one minute.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan until smooth; season as desired.
- Combine pasta with cheese sauce until evenly coated; transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, mix in cooked bacon bits or steamed broccoli before baking. - You can prep this dish ahead of time by assembling it up to the baking stage and refrigerating for up to two days.