17+ Best Macaroni And Cheese Recipe Thanksgiving Experience Culinary Bliss Now!
Published on: Mar 9, 2024
Mac and cheese is a beloved dish that makes an appearance at many Thanksgiving dinners. But not all mac and cheese recipes are created equal. If you want to impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds (or thirds), you'll need the best macaroni and cheese recipe for Thanksgiving. Luckily, we've got you covered with our tried and tested recipe. Not only is it delicious, but it's also easy to make and will save you time in the kitchen on this busy holiday. So let's get cooking and make this Thanksgiving extra special with the best macaroni and cheese dish!
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Turkey Meat, Sweet Potatoes, Peas
Looking for a way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers? Look no further than this delicious mac and cheese recipe. Leftover turkey and stuffing are mixed into a creamy cheese sauce, and then topped with a generous layer of crispy breadcrumbs. It's like Thanksgiving dinner in every bite!
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Fancy Macaroni
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Butter, Onions, Bacon, Bacon Grease, All
This mac and cheese recipe is the perfect way to elevate a classic dish for a special occasion. Bacon, truffle oil, and a blend of gourmet cheeses make this mac and cheese a truly fancy and indulgent treat. Serve it as a side dish for a dinner party or as a main course for a decadent date night in.
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Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Vegetable Oil, Macaroni, Milk, Unsalted
Of course, no list of the best mac and cheese recipes would be complete without a classic option. This tried and true recipe uses a combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere for a rich and flavorful cheese sauce. Baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite.
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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 creamy and indulgent mac and cheese recipe, look no further. This oven baked version features a creamy cheese sauce made with a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, and is topped with a layer of buttery breadcrumbs. It's the ultimate comfort food and perfect for a cozy night in.
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Insanely Cheesy And Creamy Mac & Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese
This mac and cheese recipe takes things to the next level with its ultra-creamy and cheesy sauce. It's made with a combination of cheddar, Gouda, and Brie cheese, giving it a unique and irresistible flavor. Serve it as a side dish or add some protein like chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
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Thanksgiving Favorite
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Milk, Unsalted Butter, Flour, Gruyere
Another great recipe for using up those Thanksgiving leftovers, this mac and cheese is a family favorite. Mix in leftover mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a twist on a classic dish. Top it off with some fried onions for a crunchy and flavorful finish.
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Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheese, Butter, Milk, Paprika, Mustard
Nothing beats a classic homemade mac and cheese, and this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your household. It's made with a simple and flavorful cheese sauce, and can be customized with your favorite cheeses and toppings. Add some bacon, jalapenos, or even broccoli for a personalized twist.
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Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Egg, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
If you're looking for a quick and easy mac and cheese recipe, this is the one for you. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this stovetop mac and cheese is ready in under 30 minutes. Add some diced ham or peas to make it a complete meal.
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Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Butter, Vegetable Oil, Elbow Macaroni, Shredded Mild
This classic baked mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. The combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheese gives it a rich and delicious flavor, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. Serve it as a side dish or as the main event.
In the South, mac and cheese is a staple at any family gathering or holiday feast. This traditional recipe is made with a creamy and cheesy sauce, and is then baked to perfection. It's comfort food at its finest and is sure to become a family favorite.
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Creamy Southern Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Flour, Skim Milk, Nutmeg, Mustard, Salt
For a twist on the traditional Southern mac and cheese, try this creamy and indulgent version. It's made with a blend of cheddar, Gouda, and cream cheese, giving it a rich and creamy texture. Top it off with some crispy bacon for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Creamy Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Cheeses, Shredded Parmesan, Velveeta, Milk
If you're looking for a hands-off mac and cheese recipe, this crockpot version is the answer. The cheese sauce is made in the slow cooker, making it super easy to throw together. Add some diced ham or broccoli for a complete meal.
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Paula Deen's Crock Pot Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Butter, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Eggs
For a classic and indulgent mac and cheese recipe, look no further than Paula Deen's famous crockpot version. This recipe uses a blend of cheddar, Velveeta, and cream cheese for an incredibly creamy and cheesy sauce. It's perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
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Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Butter, All
For a no-fuss, classic mac and cheese recipe, this one is a winner. The cheese sauce is made with just a few ingredients and can be ready in under 20 minutes. Serve it as a side dish or add some protein like chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
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Three Cheese Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Spices
If you're a cheese lover, this mac and cheese recipe is for you. It's made with a blend of three different types of cheese – cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan – for a flavor explosion in every bite. Serve it as a side dish or add some cooked bacon for a delicious twist.
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Uncooked Macaroni Crock Pot Mac and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Milk, Salt, Dry Mustard, Black Pepper, Garlic
This unique mac and cheese recipe uses uncooked macaroni, making it incredibly easy to prepare. The cheese sauce is made in the slow cooker, and the uncooked pasta is added in, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish. Customize it with your favorite cheeses and toppings.
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French Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Garlic, Butter, Creme Fraiche, Gruyere
For a fancy and flavorful twist on traditional mac and cheese, try this French-inspired recipe. The cheese sauce is made with Gruyere, Brie, and Parmesan cheese, and is then topped with a layer of panko breadcrumbs and herbs. It's a unique and delicious spin on a classic dish.
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The Best Mac and Cheese (with healthy variations) +...
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Egg, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk
For a healthier option, try this mac and cheese recipe that uses whole wheat pasta and a blend of Greek yogurt and light cream cheese for the sauce. It's still just as creamy and indulgent as the traditional version, but with a healthier twist. Add some veggies like broccoli or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients.
This Southern-style mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. The cheese sauce is made with a blend of cheddar and Velveeta for an ultra-creamy and cheesy dish. Top it off with some crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy and buttery finish.
Another delicious Southern-style mac and cheese recipe, this one uses a mix of cheddar and Colby cheese for a rich and flavorful sauce. The addition of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce gives it a unique and delicious twist. Serve it as a side dish or add some diced ham to make it a complete meal.
The Key to Perfect Mac and Cheese
Choosing the Right Cheese
The key to making the best mac and cheese lies in choosing the right cheese. While any cheese can technically be used, some cheeses work better than others in this dish. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice that adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the mac and cheese. Gruyere cheese is another great option, as it melts smoothly and adds a nutty flavor. For a more unique and gourmet twist, try using fontina or gouda cheese. Whichever cheese you choose, make sure to grate it yourself for the best results. Pre-grated cheese often has added ingredients that can affect the texture and taste of the dish.
Making the Perfect Cheese Sauce
The key to a creamy and flavorful mac and cheese is the cheese sauce. To make the perfect sauce, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add in equal parts flour and whisk until combined. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in milk while continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth. Next, add in your grated cheese, a pinch of mustard powder, and a dash of garlic powder. Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Choosing the Right Pasta
While mac and cheese traditionally uses elbow macaroni, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Rotini, cavatappi, and gemelli are all great options that hold onto the cheese sauce well. Whichever pasta you choose, make sure to cook it al dente and rinse it with cold water before adding it to the cheese sauce. This helps prevent the pasta from overcooking and becoming mushy.
Adding in Delicious Mix-Ins
While mac and cheese is delicious on its own, you can elevate the dish even more by adding in some tasty mix-ins. Bacon, crumbled sausage, or shredded chicken all make great additions to the dish. You can also add in some diced tomatoes, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a healthier twist. Get creative and mix and match your favorite ingredients to make a truly unique and delicious mac and cheese dish.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the best mac and cheese for Thanksgiving, it's time to get cooking! With the right cheese, a creamy sauce, and delicious mix-ins, your mac and cheese is sure to be a hit with your guests. So go ahead and impress your loved ones with this mouthwatering dish that will surely become a new Thanksgiving tradition. Happy cooking!
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