Mac and Cheese Recipes for Thanksgiving

Why Mac and Cheese Belongs on the Thanksgiving Table

Thanksgiving is a celebration of comfort and togetherness—and what’s more comforting than mac and cheese? It’s rich, warm, indulgent, and universally loved by kids and adults alike. While it may not be traditional for everyone, baked mac and cheese is now a staple at many holiday gatherings, especially in Southern and soul food traditions.

Whether you’re preparing a family-style feast or contributing a dish to a potluck, mac and cheese is the one side that always gets finished.

This article shares two must-try versions perfect for Thanksgiving:

• Creamy stovetop mac and cheese for silky, melt-in-your-mouth goodness

• Classic baked mac and cheese with a crispy, cheesy topping

Both are made without pork, alcohol, or unnecessary additives—just wholesome, flavorful ingredients that deliver every time.

---

Ingredients for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

The heart of mac and cheese lies in its simplicity—but quality ingredients make all the difference.

Pasta:

• Elbow macaroni is traditional, but cavatappi, shells, or penne also work well.

• Cook until just al dente, since the pasta will absorb more liquid when baked.

Cheese:

• A blend gives the best flavor and texture. Ideal options include:

  • Sharp cheddar (base flavor)

  • Mozzarella (melty stretch)

  • Gruyère or Swiss (nutty notes)

  • Parmesan (savory finish)

  • Monterey Jack or Colby (smooth melt)

Avoid pre-shredded cheeses, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Milk & Cream:

• Whole milk or a combination of milk and heavy cream results in the richest sauce.

• For a lighter version, use all milk—but expect a less creamy finish.

Butter & Flour:

• Used to make a roux, the base for béchamel (white sauce).

• This step ensures a smooth, thick sauce without clumping.

Seasonings:

• Salt and black pepper are essential.

• Optional extras: garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, or a dash of nutmeg for depth.

Breadcrumb Topping (for baked version):

• Panko or fresh breadcrumbs tossed in olive oil or butter

• Optional: mix in grated Parmesan for extra flavor

---

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Quick Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Serves: 6–8

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice

• 4 tbsp butter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk (or 2 cups milk + 1 cup heavy cream)

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil salted water. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Roux:

   • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.

   • Add flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes until golden and bubbly.

3. Add Milk:

   • Slowly whisk in milk (and cream if using), making sure it stays smooth.

   • Continue whisking until sauce begins to thicken—about 5 minutes.

4. Add Cheese:

   • Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

   • Mix until completely melted and smooth.

5. Season:

   • Add salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste.

6. Combine:

   • Add cooked pasta. Stir to fully coat every piece with cheese sauce.

7. Serve:

   • Serve hot as-is or transfer to a serving dish and cover to keep warm.

---

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Quick Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

• Serves: 8–10

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni or similar pasta

• 4 tbsp butter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk (or 2 cups milk + 1 cup heavy cream)

• 2½ cups sharp cheddar, shredded

• 1 cup Gruyère or mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)

Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or fresh breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

• Pinch of paprika or dried herbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Set oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Boil Pasta:

   • Cook pasta just until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make Cheese Sauce:

   • In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour for 2 minutes.

   • Slowly add milk while whisking. Simmer until thickened.

   • Add all cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.

4. Season:

   • Add salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder if desired.

5. Assemble:

   • Combine pasta and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.

   • Pour into a greased 9×13” baking dish.

6. Make Topping:

   • In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil (and Parmesan, if using).

   • Sprinkle evenly over pasta.

7. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown.

8. Serve:

   • Let sit 5 minutes before serving to set.

---

Make-Ahead Tips for Thanksgiving

• Assemble Ahead:
  Prepare the baked mac and cheese up to the baking step. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bring to room temp before baking.

• Freezing:
  Freeze unbaked mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

• Reheating:
  Add a splash of milk and cover with foil to reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

---

Flavor Variations (No Pork, No Alcohol)

Spicy Kick:

• Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce.

Veggie-Loaded:

• Stir in roasted cauliflower, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Herb-Infused:

• Mix in fresh thyme, parsley, or chives for an herby lift.

Crunch Factor:

• Top with crushed plain cornflakes or seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping.

Dairy-Free Option:

• Use unsweetened almond or oat milk with dairy-free cheese (look for meltable vegan brands).

---

How to Serve Mac and Cheese at Thanksgiving

• As a Side Dish:
  Mac and cheese pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, green beans, sweet potatoes, or cranberry sauce.

• As a Main (Vegetarian Option):
  Serve with a green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash for a hearty meatless meal.

• In a Buffet:
  Keep warm in a slow cooker on low heat, stirring occasionally.

---

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make mac and cheese without baking it?
Yes! The stovetop version is perfect for a quicker, ultra-creamy option.

How do I keep baked mac and cheese moist?
Don’t overbake, and be sure your sauce is extra creamy before baking—pasta absorbs moisture as it cooks.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely. Cook it slightly under so it doesn’t break apart during baking. Use gluten-free flour for the roux.

What cheeses melt best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and Gruyère melt well and offer balanced flavor. Avoid overly aged cheeses or those that separate when heated.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the cheesy creaminess. You can skip optional spices or herbs to keep it simple.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes—just use a larger baking dish or two pans. Increase cooking time slightly for deeper dishes.

How long will leftovers last?
3–4 days in the refrigerator, tightly covered. Reheat with a splash of milk.

Can I add protein?
Sure! Try shredded chicken or sautéed mushrooms (no pork or alcohol needed) for a more filling version.

Final Thoughts

Mac and cheese is a timeless, soul-warming dish that fits right into any Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you choose a creamy stovetop version or a baked style with golden crust, the result is guaranteed satisfaction. With simple ingredients, bold flavor, and total crowd appeal, this is one side that always disappears fast.

The best part? You can make it ahead, customize it for dietary needs, and know that even the pickiest eaters will want seconds.