Introduction
Hey there, readers! Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. And what could be more comforting on a chilly autumn day than a warm, gooey bowl of baked mac and cheese?
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious mac and cheese recipe that will impress your guests, this is it. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that will be the hit of the Thanksgiving feast.
The Perfect Side Dish
Mac and cheese is the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving dinner. It’s creamy, cheesy, and flavorful, and it goes well with just about anything. Whether you’re serving it with turkey, ham, or vegetarian lasagna, mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this baked mac and cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
To make the baked mac and cheese, follow these instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Stir in macaroni and pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over mac and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Variations on the Classic
The classic baked mac and cheese recipe is delicious, but there are many ways to customize it to your taste. Here are a few ideas:
Add some vegetables
Adding vegetables to your baked mac and cheese is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition. Some good options include:
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Peas
- Carrots
- Spinach
Change up the cheese
The type of cheese you use will greatly affect the flavor of your mac and cheese. If you like a sharp cheddar, use a sharp cheddar. If you prefer a milder flavor, use a mild cheddar or a combination of cheeses.
Add some protein
Adding some protein to your baked mac and cheese will make it a more filling meal. Some good options include:
- Ground beef
- Sausage
- Chicken
- Shrimp
Table: The Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 pound |
| Unsalted butter | 8 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tablespoons |
| Milk | 4 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 4 cups |
| Shredded Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup |
| Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
Conclusion
There you have it, readers! The perfect baked mac and cheese recipe for Thanksgiving. This dish is easy to make, customizable to your taste, and sure to be a hit with your guests. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
While you’re here, be sure to check out our other articles on Thanksgiving recipes, including:
- Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe: The Ultimate Guide
- Thanksgiving Ham Recipe: The Easy Way
- Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe: The Best of the Best
FAQ about Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy Thanksgiving
Q: What type of pasta is best for baked mac and cheese?
A: Elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but you can also use any type of short pasta, such as penne or shells.
Q: What is the best cheese to use?
A: A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses is a classic choice, but you can also use any type of cheese that you like. Some good options include Gruyere, Parmesan, or Gouda.
Q: How do you make a creamy sauce?
A: To make a creamy sauce, melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour. Gradually whisk in milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Simmer for a few minutes, then add your cheese and stir until melted.
Q: How baked mac and cheese?
A: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and return to the pot. Stir in the cheese sauce, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and browned on top.
Q: Can you add other ingredients to baked mac and cheese?
A: Yes, you can add any type of ingredients that you like. Some popular options include cooked chicken, bacon, or vegetables.
Q: What is the best way to reheat baked mac and cheese?
A: To reheat baked mac and cheese, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Cover the mac and cheese with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can you make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make baked mac and cheese ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe and then let it cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: What should I serve with baked mac and cheese?
A: Baked mac and cheese is a great main dish or side dish. It can be served with a variety of dishes, such as roasted turkey, ham, or vegetables.
Q: How can I make baked mac and cheese healthier?
A: To make baked mac and cheese healthier, use whole-wheat pasta and low-fat cheese. You can also add vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli or cauliflower.
Q: What are some tips for making the best baked mac and cheese?
A: Here are a few tips for making the best baked mac and cheese:
- Use high-quality cheese.
- Make a creamy sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta.
- Bake the mac and cheese until it is bubbly and browned on top.