Ah, the holidays! There’s something so magical about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. This year, I’m putting a festive spin on a classic comfort dish that everyone adores—Christmas Mac and Cheese! Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness mingling with hints of garlic, mustard, and savory bits of ham, all topped with a golden breadcrumb crust that adds just the right crunch. Trust me, this isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s a celebration on a plate! Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this dish will warm your heart and fill your home with joy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Christmas Mac and Cheese. Make sure to grab these ingredients before you start cooking!
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked diced ham (or turkey for a lighter twist!)
- 1/2 cup cooked green peas
Feel free to adjust the cheese quantities to your taste—more cheese means more creaminess! And if you’re looking to keep it vegetarian, just leave out the ham and add extra veggies instead. Now, let’s get ready to create some holiday magic in the kitchen!
How to Prepare Christmas Mac and Cheese
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this festive masterpiece! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you every step of the way, so you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy dish that’ll impress everyone at your holiday table.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step because we want our Christmas Mac and Cheese to bake perfectly!
- While the oven is warming up, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain it well once it’s al dente—you don’t want any extra water diluting your cheesy goodness!
- Next, grab a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Be careful not to let it brown too much; we just want it melted and ready for the next step.
- Add the flour and whisk it in for about 2 minutes. This creates a roux, which is the base of your cheese sauce. Stir it well—it should be a smooth paste.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens a bit; this usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Now, stir in the garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic begins—your kitchen will smell incredible!
- Once the sauce is thickened, lower the heat and add in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until they’re completely melted and the sauce is creamy and dreamy.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni, diced ham, and green peas. Ensure everything is well coated in that cheesy goodness.
- Transfer your mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs for that delightful crunch.
- Finally, pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until it’s golden brown and bubbly. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, because the smell will have you drooling!
And that’s it! You’ve just created a delicious Christmas Mac and Cheese that’s bound to be a hit. Serve hot, and get ready for compliments!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delightful Christmas Mac and Cheese packs in approximately 450 calories, 20g of fat, and 20g of protein. You’ll also find around 50g of carbohydrates, with 5g of sugar and 2g of fiber. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust as needed. Enjoy this festive dish while savoring its comforting flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Mac and Cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a joyful celebration of flavors that brings warmth to your holiday gatherings! Here’s why you’ll adore making it:
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Rich, creamy texture that’s simply irresistible—everyone will be going back for seconds!
- Festive flavors like garlic and mustard that add a delightful twist to the classic recipe.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family gatherings or holiday parties.
- Customizable! You can easily swap in your favorite cheeses or proteins.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) make for a fantastic next-day meal.
Trust me, once you serve this dish, it’ll become a cherished holiday tradition!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t skimp on the cheese—use a mix of sharp cheddar and a creamier cheese like Monterey Jack for depth of flavor and creaminess. If you’re looking to switch it up, try adding some smoked gouda for a nice smoky touch!
Also, don’t forget to season your pasta water with salt before cooking the macaroni; it really enhances the overall flavor. For the breadcrumbs, I love using panko for an extra crunch. And if you want to elevate your dish, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. They add a pop of color and freshness that brightens everything up!
Lastly, let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the dish set up nicely, making it easier to serve. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize your Christmas Mac and Cheese! Here are some creative variations that will keep things exciting and tasty:
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Instead of just cheddar and Parmesan, mix in some gouda or fontina for an extra creamy and flavorful twist. You can even throw in a bit of blue cheese for a bold kick!
- Veggie-Packed: Add cooked broccoli, spinach, or even roasted red peppers to sneak in some greens. They not only add color but also boost the nutritional content!
- Turkey Time: Swap the ham for cooked turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter yet equally delicious version. Perfect for using up those holiday leftovers!
- Spicy Kick: Want to spice things up? Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a few shakes of hot sauce into your cheese sauce for a delightful heat that’ll surprise your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to elevate the flavor profile. A little sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs just before serving makes everything look and taste gourmet!
- Truffle Twist: Drizzle a bit of truffle oil over the top before baking for a luxurious touch. It’ll take your Christmas Mac and Cheese from cozy to gourmet in no time!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make this dish truly your own. The magic of mac and cheese lies in its versatility, so let your creativity shine!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious Christmas Mac and Cheese, you might have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store them properly, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe container. It should be good for about 2 months.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the mac and cheese in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through. If you want to add a little extra crunch, remove the foil for the last few minutes to let the top get golden again. Enjoy your cozy leftovers!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you love, like penne or shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you want to keep it lighter, shredded turkey or cooked chicken works beautifully! You can also skip the meat altogether and load up on veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven—no need to thaw!
What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve your Christmas Mac and Cheese hot, straight out of the oven! It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a festive touch!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooled completely, then wrap it tightly and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Christmas Mac and Cheese: 7 Ways to Make It Irresistible
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive twist on classic mac and cheese with holiday flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked diced ham
- 1/2 cup cooked green peas
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and whisk for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk while whisking continuously.
- Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, then add cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni, ham, and peas.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, add more cheese.
- Can substitute ham with turkey for a lighter option.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Christmas Mac and Cheese, festive mac and cheese, holiday pasta