17+ Best Macaroni And Cheese Recipe For Thanksgiving Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Mar 8, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. And what better way to celebrate this beloved holiday than with a classic comfort food dish - macaroni and cheese. But not just any mac and cheese will do, we're talking about the best macaroni and cheese recipe for Thanksgiving. This mouthwatering dish will have your guests begging for seconds and asking for the recipe. So put away that boxed mac and cheese and get ready to impress your loved ones with this savory and cheesy masterpiece.
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Vegetable Oil, Macaroni, Milk, Unsalted
If you’re craving a classic comfort food, look no further than mac and cheese. This timeless dish is a favorite for both kids and adults, and for good reason. With its creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked noodles, mac and cheese is the ultimate indulgence. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit any taste preference. From traditional mac and cheese to unique variations, here are 20 mouth-watering recipes to satisfy your cravings.
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Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheese, Butter, Milk, Paprika, Mustard
Nothing beats a homemade version of mac and cheese. This recipe combines cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese for the ultimate cheesy flavor. The addition of bacon and green onions adds a delicious and savory twist to this classic dish. Plus, baking it in the oven gives the mac and cheese a crispy, golden crust that is irresistible.
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Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Egg, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
If you’re looking for a simpler version of mac and cheese, this recipe is for you. With only 5 ingredients, this dish is quick and easy to make. It uses evaporated milk to create a creamy sauce, and the addition of garlic powder gives it a subtle but delicious flavor. This mac and cheese is perfect for a busy weeknight or as a side dish for a larger meal.
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Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Flour, Skim Milk, Nutmeg, Mustard, Salt
This southern-inspired mac and cheese recipe takes the classic dish to the next level with the addition of cream cheese and heavy cream. These ingredients create an ultra-creamy and rich sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. The use of sharp cheddar cheese gives this dish a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
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Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheeses, Shredded Parmesan, Velveeta, Milk
If you’re short on time, this crock pot mac and cheese recipe is the perfect solution. Simply mix together cheese, milk, and macaroni in the slow cooker and let it cook for a few hours. The result is a creamy and delicious mac and cheese that requires minimal effort. Add some seasoned breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
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Three Cheese Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Spices
If you can’t decide on just one type of cheese, this recipe has got you covered. With the combination of cheddar, Gruyere, and fontina cheese, this mac and cheese is loaded with flavor. The use of whole milk and half and half creates a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. Sprinkle some paprika on top for a pop of color and flavor.
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Uncooked Macaroni Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Milk, Salt, Dry Mustard, Black Pepper, Garlic
This unique recipe allows you to skip the step of cooking the macaroni beforehand. Simply mix together elbow macaroni, milk, butter, and cheese in the crock pot, and let it cook for a few hours. The result is a creamy and cheesy mac and cheese with perfectly cooked noodles. This is a great option for busy days when you don’t have time to boil pasta.
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French Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Garlic, Butter, Creme Fraiche, Gruyere
Take a trip to France with this delicious twist on mac and cheese. This recipe combines Gruyere cheese, ham, and Dijon mustard for a French-inspired flavor. The addition of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top creates a crispy and flavorful crust. This dish is perfect for a fancy dinner party or as a unique weeknight meal.
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The Best Mac and Cheese (with healthy variations) +...
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Egg, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier version of mac and cheese. It uses whole wheat pasta and a combination of low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt to create a lighter but still delicious dish. The recipe also includes variations such as spinach and feta or broccoli and cheddar, giving you plenty of options to switch up the flavors.
This classic southern mac and cheese recipe is a must-try. It combines sharp cheddar and Velveeta cheese for a perfectly creamy and cheesy sauce. The addition of hot sauce gives it a little kick, and the use of eggs creates a custard-like texture. Baking it in the oven gives this mac and cheese a crispy and golden crust.
This recipe is similar to the previous one, but with a twist. It adds bacon and green onions to the classic southern mac and cheese for a smoky and savory flavor. The use of heavy cream and half and half creates an ultra-creamy sauce that will have you going back for seconds. The combination of all these ingredients makes this dish the ultimate comfort food.
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Oven Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Velveeta R Cheese, Butter, Milk, Cream, Salt, Pepper
If you’re looking for a more traditional and no-fuss mac and cheese recipe, this one is for you. It combines cheddar and Gouda cheese for a perfectly balanced flavor. The addition of mustard powder gives it a subtle tanginess and a little bit of nutmeg adds a warm and cozy flavor. The result is a classic and delicious mac and cheese that will satisfy all your cravings.
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Perfect Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
This recipe lives up to its name – it truly is the perfect creamy mac and cheese. It combines sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese for a balanced but rich flavor. The use of evaporated milk creates an ultra-creamy sauce, and the addition of panko breadcrumbs on top adds a delicious crunch. This dish is perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night in.
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Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Flour, Salt, Pepper, Margarine, Shredded
This classic baked mac and cheese recipe is simple but delicious. It combines cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a tangy and cheesy flavor. The use of hot sauce and Dijon mustard gives it a little kick, and the addition of bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor. Baking it in the oven creates a crispy and golden crust that will have you coming back for seconds.
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MY MOTHER'S GOULASH
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Onion, Garlic, Bell Pepper, Tomatoes
This unique recipe is a twist on classic mac and cheese. It combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomato sauce for a hearty and filling dish. The addition of Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder gives it a rich and savory flavor. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping for the week.
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Hamburger and Macaroni Casserole
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Onion, Celery, Macaroni, Tomatoes
This casserole is a perfect combination of mac and cheese and a classic hamburger. It combines ground beef, macaroni, and cheese for a hearty and delicious meal. The addition of onion soup mix gives it a unique and savory flavor, and the use of crushed Ritz crackers on top adds a delicious crunch. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and easy.
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Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, Flour, Milk, Light Cream, Mustard
This creamy and cheesy casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It combines cheddar and Velveeta cheese for an ultra-creamy and rich sauce. The addition of cream cheese gives it a tangy kick, and the use of heavy cream creates a velvety texture. Baking it in the oven creates a crispy and golden crust that is irresistible.
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Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni Pasta, Sea Salt, Ground Black Pepper, Salted
If you love using your slow cooker, this mac and cheese recipe is a must-try. It combines cheddar and Gruyere cheese for a delicious and balanced flavor. The use of half and half and cream cheese creates an ultra-creamy and rich sauce. Simply mix everything together in the slow cooker and let it cook for a few hours for a hands-off and delicious meal.
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Cream Cheese Mac & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, Flour, Whole Milk, Water, Cheese
This unique recipe uses cream cheese instead of regular cheese for a twist on classic mac and cheese. The result is a rich and creamy dish with a tangy kick. The addition of hot sauce gives it a little heat, and the use of panko breadcrumbs on top adds a delicious crunch. This dish is perfect for a fancy dinner party or for a cozy night in.
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Southwest Ground Beef Casserole
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Diced Onion, Orange Bell Pepper, Red
This casserole is a delicious and unique twist on mac and cheese. It combines ground beef, macaroni, and cheese with black beans, corn, and salsa for a southwest-inspired flavor. The use of taco seasoning gives it a spicy kick, and the addition of Mexican cheese blend on top adds a delicious and melty finish. This dish is perfect for those who love a little bit of spice in their meals.
The Secret to the Best Mac and Cheese Recipe for Thanksgiving
Now, you may be wondering, what makes this mac and cheese recipe stand out from the rest? The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and adding a twist to the traditional recipe. Instead of using regular cheddar cheese, try using a combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese for a more complex and rich flavor. And instead of using just plain macaroni, mix it up with elbow and cavatappi pasta for a fun and unique texture.
The Importance of a Creamy and Cheesy Sauce
One of the key elements of a delicious mac and cheese is a creamy and cheesy sauce. To achieve this, it is important to balance the ratio of milk and cheese. Too much milk will result in a runny sauce, while too much cheese can make it too thick. Also, don't be afraid to experiment with different types of milk, such as whole milk, heavy cream, or even evaporated milk, to find the perfect consistency and taste for your sauce.
Adding a Twist with Toppings and Mix-Ins
To take your mac and cheese to the next level, consider adding some toppings and mix-ins. This can include crispy bacon, caramelized onions, diced ham, or even chopped broccoli. These ingredients not only add extra flavor and texture, but they also make the dish more visually appealing. And don't forget to top it off with a generous sprinkle of breadcrumbs and grated cheese for a crispy and golden crust.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the key to making the best macaroni and cheese recipe for Thanksgiving is using high-quality ingredients, balancing the sauce, and adding a creative twist. This dish is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving feast and will have everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and prepare to impress your loved ones with your culinary skills. Happy Thanksgiving!
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