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–+ servings
Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe

Irresistible Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe You'll Love

This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy cheese with customizable options for a crowd-pleasing dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Elbow Macaroni Feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Margarine can be used as a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute if needed.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Can replace with half-and-half or non-dairy alternatives.
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Medium cheddar is a great substitute.
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese Replace with Gruyère or Gouda for gourmet touch.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Mix with Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
  • 1 cup Extra Cheese For an ooey-gooey finish.
  • to taste Spices Garlic powder or cayenne for extra kick.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbling. Whisk in flour, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
  3. Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until completely melted and creamy.
  5. Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce until every piece is thoroughly coated.
  6. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Smooth sauce by whisking continuously while making. Consider adding cooked bacon or vegetables for extra flavor.

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