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Delicious Friendsgiving menu ideas featuring appetizers, sides, and desserts.

Baked Mac and Cheese

A crowd-pleasing baked mac and cheese that is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for Friendsgiving gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 pounds elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 1/3 cup flour
  • 4 cups milk Whole milk is best, but 2 percent works
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
  • 2 cups shredded gouda Or more cheddar if that’s what you’ve got
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon salt Plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Optional but amazing
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the pasta in well salted water and stop cooking when it’s still a little firm.
  2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  3. In a big pot, melt the butter, whisk in the flour, and cook for about a minute.
  4. Slowly whisk in the milk, keep stirring, and let it thicken until it coats the spoon.
  5. Turn the heat low and stir in cheddar, gouda, and parmesan until melted.
  6. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to the cheese mixture.
  7. Stir in the cooked pasta.
  8. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole.
Baking
  1. Mix panko with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.
  2. Bake at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  3. For extra crunch, broil for 1 to 2 minutes, but watch it closely.

Notes

If your sauce looks too thick before baking, add a bit more milk for creaminess. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, arugula salad, and cranberry sauce for a balanced meal.