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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with a crunchy topping, perfect for Thanksgiving.

Easy Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Creamy Baked

A creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese that is a holiday favorite and perfect for feeding a crowd.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or small shells Elbow macaroni is classic, but small shells work too.
Sauce Base
  • 4 Tbsp butter
  • 4 Tbsp flour For thickening the sauce.
  • 3 cups whole milk Whole milk is best for richness, but 2 percent works.
Cheese
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Use freshly grated for best results.
  • 1 cup mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or fontina cheese, shredded Choose one of these for a melty texture.
Seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp black pepper A pinch for flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika Just a tiny pinch for depth.
Optional Topping
  • 1 cup buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers For a crunchy topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the pasta in salted water 1 to 2 minutes shy of being done, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a pot, melt butter, then stir in flour for about a minute.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until you have a smooth sauce.
  4. Lower the heat and add cheese a handful at a time, stirring to melt.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Stir in the cooked pasta, pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish, and add more cheese on top.
Baking
  1. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
  2. Broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes for a crispier top, but watch closely.
  3. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Grate your own cheese for a better melt. Undercook pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy.