If you’re searching for a soul-warming, crowd-pleasing dish that elegantly combines comfort and festive flair, this Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe will steal the show at your holiday table. Loaded with a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, creamy Gruyère, and nutty Parmesan, it’s baked to golden perfection with a crunchy, buttery panko topping that complements every velvety bite. Whether you’re a mac and cheese devotee or looking to introduce a new family favorite, this dish offers that perfect cheesy hug you crave during the season of gratitude.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of rich flavor and irresistible texture. From the sturdy elbow macaroni that holds sauce beautifully to the trio of cheeses that create a harmonious balance of sharpness and creaminess, each element is essential for that signature taste.
- Elbow macaroni (1 pound): Classic pasta shape that captures cheesy sauce in every nook and cranny.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds a smooth richness and helps create the roux for a silky sauce.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection without lumps.
- Whole milk (4 cups, warmed): Provides luscious body and silky texture to the cheese sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds indulgent richness and extra creaminess to the sauce.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers just enough subtle heat to balance richness.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers a mild aromatic background note.
- Mustard powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle tangy depth that elevates the cheese flavors.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (4 cups, shredded): The star cheese with bold and tangy character.
- Gruyère or mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Brings gooey meltiness and nuttiness.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds umami punch and helps create a golden crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Creates a satisfyingly crunchy topping to contrast creamy sauce.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Binds the breadcrumbs for a golden, fragrant crust.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the topping.
How to Make Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Cook the macaroni according to the package until just al dente — this means a tender bite that will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring the pasta isn’t mushy but perfectly soft after baking.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste, cooking 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens — this silky béchamel base is key for that luxurious mouthfeel. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder if you’re using it to add that extra zip that cheese sauces love.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Remove the sauce from heat, then stir in your sharp cheddar, Gruyère (or mozzarella), and Parmesan cheeses until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. The combination of cheeses here not only brings deep flavor but also creates a beautifully balanced melt that clings lovingly to each piece of pasta.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until each piece is evenly coated. Pour this decadent mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika, then sprinkle this golden topping evenly over your mac and cheese. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is bubbly, crisp, and beautifully browned — the textural contrast alone makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe rest for 5 minutes after baking to set up slightly, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors even more. This little pause lets the cheese sauce thicken perfectly so every spoonful is pure creamy delight.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your mac and cheese adds a delightful fresh or savory touch. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and mild herbal brightness. Crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions also pair wonderfully, adding an irresistible texture and smoky flavor boost to complement the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe sings alongside roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or green beans, balancing the meal with some earthy crunch. For a fuller holiday spread, pairing it with a savory turkey or glazed ham offers a perfect protein combo that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by serving this dish in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, or jazz it up by stirring in roasted butternut squash or crispy breadcrumbs mixed with chopped nuts for festive flair. You can also top each portion with a drizzle of truffle oil to elevate the dish to true gourmet status.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy holiday meals or tasty next-day lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze this mac and cheese baked dish before baking: just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add a few extra minutes to baking time until bubbly and golden.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel for a quick cheesy fix that’s almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! Simply substitute your regular elbow macaroni with a gluten-free variety. Just make sure to follow package instructions for cooking times to maintain that perfect al dente texture.
What cheeses work best if I can’t find Gruyère?
Gruyère’s nutty flavor and great melting characteristics can be replaced with mozzarella for meltiness or fontina for a similar creamy texture and mild flavor. Feel free to experiment with whatever cheese you love!
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out dairy milk and cheeses for plant-based alternatives like almond milk, cashew cream, and vegan cheddar-style shreds. Using vegan butter and panko breadcrumbs ensures the topping stays crisp. The result will be deliciously creamy and perfect for dairy-free diets.
Can I add extra mix-ins to make it more festive?
Definitely! Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, roasted butternut squash, or sautéed mushrooms before baking to add a seasonal twist and additional layers of flavor that feel just right for Thanksgiving.
Should I cover the dish while baking?
For this recipe, it’s best to bake uncovered so the breadcrumb topping can turn golden brown and crisp, providing that delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe is truly a beloved classic that brings warmth, joy, and a big cheesy smile to your holiday table. It’s easy enough to make but impressive enough to steal the spotlight among your festive sides. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished tradition in your family’s holiday celebrations — and who wouldn’t want that? Go on, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious comfort food magic this season.
Print
Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta bake perfect as a side or main dish during the holiday season. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, it features a buttery panko breadcrumb topping baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Mac and Cheese
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Create the Roux and Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually add the warmed milk and cream, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking and stirring for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season and Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder if using. Then, mix in the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth to create a rich cheese sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Prepare Topping and Bake: Pour the mac and cheese into the greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the dish is bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier serving and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Perfect as a side dish for Thanksgiving but hearty enough to serve as a main course.
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or roasted butternut squash before baking.
- Use Gruyère for a nuttier flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Ensure the milk is warm before adding to prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Let the mac and cheese rest after baking to allow the sauce to thicken.
