Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe for Thanksgiving

This creamy baked mac and cheese is a Thanksgiving side dish favorite! With a rich cheese sauce and crispy topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-please.

Introduction: Background & Inspiration

There’s something about a dish of creamy, baked mac and cheese that brings comfort and nostalgia to any holiday table, especially Thanksgiving! This dish, with its velvety cheese sauce and golden, crispy topping, is a timeless side that everyone loves. Whether you’re looking for a kid-friendly dish or something indulgent to pair with your Thanksgiving turkey, this baked mac and cheese is the perfect option.

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

For this decadent baked mac and cheese, gather the following ingredients:

Elbow macaroni (16 oz): This pasta shape holds the sauce well, but feel free to substitute with other short pasta.
Sharp cheddar cheese (3 cups, shredded): For a classic, rich cheese flavor.
Gruyère cheese (2 cups, shredded): Adds a creamy texture and depth.
Unsalted butter (1 stick, divided): Used in the cheese sauce and breadcrumb topping.
All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Creates the base for the creamy sauce.
Whole milk (3 cups) and whipping cream (1 cup): For a luscious, thick sauce.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a hint of smokiness.
Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup) and Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): For a crunchy, golden topping.

These high-quality cheeses and ingredients create a rich, deliciously creamy mac and cheese. You can adjust the seasonings to taste, and feel free to add more paprika for extra smokiness!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Macaroni: Follow the package instructions to cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set it aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt half a stick of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and whipping cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the Cheese:
- Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Combine and Transfer:
- Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Topping:
- Melt the remaining butter in a small saucepan and mix in the panko breadcrumbs until well coated.
- In a small bowl, combine the buttered breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden and the sauce bubbles around the edges. For a crispier topping, you can broil the dish for 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Serve:
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving so that the sauce thickens slightly.

Why Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the Perfect Side Dish for Thanksgiving

This mac and cheese is a perfect side for Thanksgiving because it’s indulgent and flavorful, with a creamy texture that complements other holiday dishes like turkey and stuffing. Its familiar flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike, and the crispy topping gives it a satisfying crunch. The dish is also easy to scale up or down, making it great for both intimate gatherings and larger family feasts.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy baked mac and cheese alongside traditional Thanksgiving dishes like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. It can also stand alone as a comforting main course or be topped with extra cheese, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flair.

Closing Tips & Storage Instructions

Make Ahead: Assemble the mac and cheese (up to the breadcrumb topping) a day before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered, until warm. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Variations: Try adding bacon bits or caramelized onions to the topping, or use different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a unique twist!

This creamy baked mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that can make any Thanksgiving table complete. Try it out and let us know how it turns out in the comments!