Ultra-Creamy Mac and Cheese – The Star of Your Thanksgiving Feast!
Rich, Cheesy, Irresistible – The Comfort Dish Everyone Will Crave!
Thanksgiving is all about indulgence, and nothing says comfort food like a homemade baked mac & cheese. This mac n cheese baked recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for a mac and cheese potluck or as the star side dish at your holiday table. With its creamy texture, golden homemade mac and cheese with breadcrumbs topping, and rich cheese sauce, this baked mac and cheese casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Whether you're looking for the best oven baked mac and cheese or an easy homemade mac and cheese recipe, this dish delivers. Plus, we’ve included variations like butternut mac and cheese and pumpkin mac and cheese for a seasonal twist!
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
This gooey baked mac and cheese is the perfect balance of creamy and crispy, making it a must-have for your mac and cheese dinner or Thanksgiving mac and cheese baked spread.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for extra texture)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for that homemade mac and cheese with breadcrumbs crunch)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden. Slowly whisk in warm milk and heavy cream until smooth. Simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and Gruyère until melted and creamy. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Add the breadcrumb topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan (if using). Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake: Place in the oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving for the perfect gooey baked mac and cheese texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese Casserole
- Use room-temperature dairy to prevent the sauce from curdling.
- Shred your own cheese for a smoother melt (pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents).
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of evaporated milk or a dollop of cream cheese.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake before serving.
Variations to Try
This easy baked mac n cheese recipe is versatile! Here are some delicious twists:
1. Butternut Mac and Cheese
Add 1 cup of roasted butternut squash puree to the cheese sauce for a sweet, velvety texture.
2. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Mix in 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and a pinch of nutmeg for a festive fall flavor.
3. Spicy Kick
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
4. Bacon & Caramelized Onion
Top with crispy bacon bits and sweet onions for a savory upgrade.
Why This Is the Best Mac N Cheese Thanksgiving Recipe
Unlike boxed versions, this creamy homemade mac and cheese is luxuriously rich, with layers of flavor from multiple cheeses and a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping. It’s a guaranteed hit at any holiday gathering!
Pairing Suggestions
Serve alongside:
- Roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham
- Green bean casserole
- Cranberry sauce
- A crisp autumn salad
Final Thoughts
This quick and easy mac and cheese recipes is a foolproof way to impress your guests. Whether you stick to the classic or try a seasonal twist like pumpkin mac and cheese, it’s sure to become a Thanksgiving tradition!
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