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Thanksgiving Mac and cheese

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  • Author: Mike
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

This outrageously cheesy and ultra-creamy baked mac and cheese is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. Topped with a crunchy Panko-Parmesan crust, it’s a comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 10 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 3 or 4-quart baking dish.
  2. Cook macaroni for one minute less than al dente according to package directions. Drain and toss with olive oil.
  3. In a large pot over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbly and golden.
  4. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Cook until bubbly, then for 2 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups of cheddar and Gruyere until smooth.
  6. Add cooked pasta to cheese sauce and stir to coat.
  7. Pour half the mac and cheese into the baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese, then top with the rest of the pasta.
  8. In a bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, 4 tablespoons melted butter, and paprika. Sprinkle over the top.
  9. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness. Let rest before serving.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for the creamiest texture. Don’t overcook pasta—stop just before al dente. Prepare the dish ahead and refrigerate, baking before serving.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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Find it online: https://irresistiblemeals.com/thanksgiving-mac-and-cheese/