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–+ servings
Christmas Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy Christmas Baked Mac and Cheese for Cozy Celebrations

This Christmas Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting, creamy dish that brings everyone together during the festive season.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Baking
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Elbow Macaroni Feel free to substitute with any short pasta.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Or margarine/coconut oil for dairy-free.
  • 4 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour is an alternative.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Non-dairy milk may alter richness.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half or a dairy-free substitute if desired.
  • 3 cups Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack) Freshly grated cheese is preferable.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Adds a festive touch.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used instead.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs are acceptable.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option.
  • a handful Chopped Fresh Parsley & Thyme Dried herbs can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Diced Ham or Cooked Bacon Omit for a vegetarian option or substitute with chicken.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • large saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat in a large saucepan and whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour to create a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, simmering until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Season the sauce with 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine the creamy cheese sauce with the drained macaroni, adding optional ham or bacon if desired.
  8. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup parmesan, and chopped herbs for the topping.
  9. Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the baking dish, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  11. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Perfect for holiday gatherings, this mac and cheese can be made ahead of time and stored for convenience.

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