A Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe brings comfort and joy to the holiday table. Its creamy, cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with roasted turkey and savory sides.
Every bite delivers warmth, love, and a hint of nostalgia. The golden crust and soft pasta make it a star of any festive spread.
It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare at home.
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe is a modern twist on a classic dish. You get a crispy top with a smooth, velvety center.
It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or Friendsgiving dinners. The flavor blends beautifully with other traditional Thanksgiving foods.
Best of all, it can be made ahead to save time on the big day.
When I First Introduced To
I first tasted this Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe at a family dinner. One creamy bite made me fall in love instantly.
It was cheesy, soft, and comforting. Since then, I’ve made it every year. My family now requests it with turkey and gravy.
It’s a tradition that warms our hearts and brings everyone closer together.

Equipment List
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Grater
- Strainer
- Oven
Ingredients List
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Step by Step (Preparation)
- Boil pasta until just tender.
- Drain pasta and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Whisk in flour until smooth.
- Slowly pour in warm milk.
- Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add cream and whisk again.
- Mix in garlic and mustard powder.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add mozzarella and mix well.
- Combine pasta and cheese sauce.
- Pour mixture into baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs and cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Bake until golden and bubbly.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt.
- Don’t overcook pasta before baking.
- Add extra cream for richer texture.
- Use a blend of cheeses for depth.
- Bake until golden for a crispy crust.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
1. Roasted Turkey:
Its savory flavor complements the cheesy pasta perfectly. The tender meat balances the creamy texture of the mac and cheese.
2. Garlic Green Beans:
A light and crisp side that cuts through the richness. It adds color and freshness to your Thanksgiving plate.
3. Cranberry Sauce:
Its sweet-tart flavor brightens up every bite. It gives a festive touch to your Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe is a holiday favorite. It’s creamy, golden, and incredibly satisfying.
With simple steps and familiar ingredients, anyone can make it at home. Serve it with turkey, green beans, or cranberry sauce for a complete meal.
This dish brings comfort, love, and cheer to the table. It’s a Thanksgiving classic your family will request every year.

Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Boil pasta until just tender.
- Drain pasta and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Whisk in flour until smooth.
- Slowly pour in warm milk.
- Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add cream and whisk again.
- Mix in garlic and mustard powder.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add mozzarella and mix well.
- Combine pasta and cheese sauce.
- Pour mixture into baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs and cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Bake until golden and bubbly.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt.
- Don’t overcook pasta before baking.
- Add extra cream for richer texture.
- Use a blend of cheeses for depth.
- Bake until golden for a crispy crust.
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