From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4
Thanksgiving Mac & Cheese
Instructions
1
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.
2
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4
Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Velveeta cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
5
Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and make the sauce creamy.
6
Transfer mac and cheese to an oven-safe baking dish and top with more shredded cheese.
7
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
My Calorie Intake
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Reserve Pasta Water for Silky Sauce 💧Save 1-2 cups of starchy pasta water before draining—use it to adjust sauce consistency and create an ultra-creamy texture that clings to every noodle without becoming heavy.
- Bloom Your Spices in Butter 🧈Toast the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in melted butter for 30-60 seconds before adding cream to intensify their flavors and prevent a raw, dusty taste in the final dish.
- Layer Your Cheeses Strategically 🧀Combine softer cheeses (Velveeta and mozzarella) into the sauce base for creaminess, then top with aged cheddar and Parmesan for a golden, flavorful crust that won't separate during baking.
- Don't Skip the Fresh Garlic 🧄Mince fresh garlic and infuse it into the butter separately from powdered garlic—this adds depth and complexity that powder alone cannot achieve in a premium holiday dish.
- Bake at Precise Temperature for Golden Top 🔆Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes to achieve a bubbling, golden-brown cheese crust while keeping the interior creamy; cover with foil halfway through if browning too quickly.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Vegetarian
Low Sugar
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
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