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–+ servings
Christmas Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy Christmas Baked Mac and Cheese for Cozy Holiday Feasts

A comforting dish that combines creamy textures and vibrant spices, this Christmas Baked Mac and Cheese is perfect for your festive gatherings.
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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: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter can replace with olive oil
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for gluten-free option, use cornstarch
  • 2 cups whole milk almond or oat milk for dairy-free
  • 1 cup heavy cream full-fat coconut milk can be a non-dairy choice
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack) mix and match for personalized taste
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg optional
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika can replace with regular paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust based on cheese saltiness
For the Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs use regular breadcrumbs if preferred
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese substitute with nutritional yeast for non-dairy
  • to taste fresh parsley and thyme substitute with dried herbs if fresh isn't available
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup diced ham omit for vegetarian option
  • 1 cup cooked bacon omit if desired

Equipment

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

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and whisk in 1/4 cup of flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, cooking until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika until cheese is melted.
  6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly. If using, fold in diced ham or bacon.
  7. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of Parmesan, and fresh herbs.
  8. Pour the macaroni mixture into the baking dish, then top with the breadcrumb mixture.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and edges are bubbling.
  10. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This Christmas Baked Mac and Cheese can be customized with different cheeses or add-ins as per dietary preferences.

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