on Sep 29, 2023
Why You’ll Love Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a favorite dish for a reason. Its appeal lies in the perfect combination of creamy cheese sauce and pasta 🍝. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, the comforting flavors and simplicity of mac and cheese are hard to resist. It’s a reliable go-to meal that brings a smile to everyone’s face. During Thanksgiving, this classic comfort food can provide a sense of familiarity alongside your turkey and stuffing.
How to Prepare Mac and Cheese
In a saucepan or a stovetop pan, melt the butter and incorporate the flour, giving it a quick stir. Next, you can choose to add either raw or roasted garlic. Gradually whisk in the milk (or a combination of milk and cream) until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in a blend of cheeses. I used Parmesan and cheddar. Meanwhile, cook the elbow pasta separately until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Once ready, add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, pouring a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Finish by seasoning the dish to your taste with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper.
Variations and Substitutions
Customize your mac and cheese experience with these creative twists and ingredient substitutions. If you’re looking to cater to dietary preferences or simply want to try something new, we’ll provide suggestions for gluten-free options, different cheese combinations, and exciting mix-ins like crispy bacon or sautéed vegetables.
Make this macaroni and cheese baked; top it with breadcrumbs or additional cheese and bake until golden and bubbly for a crispy texture. Boost the nutrition by adding sautéed vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas. If you’re gluten-intolerant, opt for gluten-free pasta and 1-1 gluten-free flour for the sauce. Try other cheese combinations, like gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella. Add cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage to your mac and cheese.
Other Thanksgiving Recipes
Stuffing Cranberry Sauce Easy Juicy Turkey Gravy Sweet Potato Donuts Pumpkin Pie Brussels Sprouts Sweet Potatoes Garlic Mashed Potatoes Roasted Squash Turkey Noodle Soup Butternut Squash Pasta Baked Apples Mushrooms Green Beans Whole Roasted Sweet Potato
Common Questions
