Thanksgiving Mac And Cheese Creamy Baked Feeds 12

Thanksgiving is all about the sides, and nothing brings the family together like a big, bubbling dish of Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese. This creamy baked version is designed to feed a crowd of 12, ensuring everyone gets a generous scoop of cheesy goodness. Forget the boxed stuff; this recipe uses a blend of sharp cheeses and a silky béchamel sauce to create the ultimate comfort food. It is rich, decadent, and destined to be the star of your holiday spread. Whether you are hosting a large gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers consistent smiles and requests for seconds.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition values

• Calories: 540 kcal per serving
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 45g

Why Make This Thanksgiving Mac And Cheese Creamy Baked Feeds 12

This recipe is a holiday lifesaver because it balances sophisticated flavor with kid-friendly appeal. By using a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère, you get a complex taste that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey and tangy cranberry sauce. The baking process creates a slightly crispy top while maintaining a gooey, molten center. It is specifically scaled to feed 12 people, so you won’t have to worry about running out mid-meal. Plus, you can prepare the base ahead of time to save precious oven space on the big day.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (4 cups)
• 8 oz Gruyère cheese, shredded (2 cups)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Directions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for two minutes less than the package instructions for al dente. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so you want it to have a firm bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in the warm milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and 4 cups of the shredded cheeses until completely smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every noodle is submerged. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheese over the top. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with 2 tbsp of melted butter and scatter them over the cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce set.

Expert Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Mac And Cheese Creamy Baked Feeds 12

To get the best results, always grate your cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese is coated in potato starch to prevent clumping, which can lead to a grainy sauce. Use warm milk when adding it to your roux to ensure a silky, lump-free texture. If you like a crustier top, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking. Finally, do not overcook the pasta initially; “mushy” is the enemy of a great baked mac and cheese.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this dish to suit your family’s preferences. Add a teaspoon of dry mustard to the sauce for a subtle tang that cuts through the richness. For a smoky twist, fold in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon. If you want a festive touch, stir in some roasted butternut squash cubes or a hint of nutmeg. For spice lovers, diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the béchamel will provide a nice kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish, let it cool, and refrigerate it overnight. When you are ready to eat, bake it at 375°F for about 40-45 minutes. You may need to add a splash of milk before baking if the pasta absorbed too much sauce.

What are the best cheeses to use?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for flavor, while Gruyère adds a sophisticated nuttiness and melts beautifully. You can also experiment with Fontina, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.

How do I keep the sauce from breaking?

Avoid boiling the sauce once you have added the cheese. High heat can cause the proteins to clump and the fats to separate. Always melt the cheese over low heat or residual heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While elbow macaroni is traditional, shells, cavatappi, or penne also work well. Look for shapes with ridges or hollow centers that can hold onto the thick cheese sauce.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a tiny splash of milk to restore creaminess. For larger portions, place them in the oven at 325°F covered with foil until heated through.

Conclusion

This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Creamy Baked Feeds 12 is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your holiday table. It is rich, reliable, and incredibly satisfying. By following these simple steps and tips, you will create a side dish that your guests will talk about until next Thanksgiving. Serve it hot, watch it disappear, and enjoy the holiday with the ones you love!

Print