Did you know that mac and cheese is one of the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes aside from all the potatoes, sweet potatoes, and stuffing? Apparently, mac and cheese is right up there in the top 4 with green bean casserole just below or above depending on the state. Who knew? Surely not me. I didn’t grow up with mac and cheese served at Thanksgiving, but geez, my brothers and I were really missing out. We would have loved a plate of mac and cheese over whatever it was we were eating (usually something “fancy” that we did not enjoy, like glazed carrots). Anyway, when my cousin Abby mentioned to me that mac and cheese is one of her favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. That’s when I knew this year would be a good year to share this recipe. It’s actually a rift off of a recipe I made back in 2013. It’s my creamy brie mac and cheese that I actually still make, even nine-ish years later! I love that mac and cheese, but I had the idea to make it simpler. No boiling, no cheese sauce, nothing fancy. It’s what we NEED on Thanksgiving. This turned out just so wonderfully delicious. It’s special, not like a classic mac and cheese, but better in its own way. Creamy, extra cheesy, and so yummy with cubes of brie cheese!
The details
Locate the perfect baking dish. I like to use something with lower sides so the top of the mac and cheese can become just a little crisp. Then mix everything together. And I really mean pretty much everything. The dry pasta, cheeses (sharp cheddar cheese, havarti cheese, and fontina), milk, sour cream, and seasonings. For the pasta use a smaller shape like elbow macaroni or shells. They’ll cook the best. Cover the dish with foil, then bake. What happens is the milk bakes into the pasta while the cheeses melt. It works so well, you will be shocked, but pleased. While the pasta is baking, mix the Ritz cracker up with a little butter and seasonings. Don’t skip the crackers, I think they make this mac and cheese really good! Top the mac and cheese off with the remaining cheeses and sprinkle over the Ritz crumbs. Bake until everything is melted and the sauce is bubbling. It’s going to smell delicious! The crackers really are the key though, I love them. You can prepare this ahead of time, then just bake it off before you would like to serve. It’s the perfect easy Thanksgiving side or dinner! If you’re looking to impress with a side dish, make this. As I’ve said, it’s loved by everyone. You can’t go wrong! Looking for other Thanksgiving sides? Here are a few ideas: Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Sweet ‘n’ Savory Bacon Pecans Shredded Brussels Sprout and Prosciutto Salad Hasselback Butternut Squash with Sage Butter Crispy Parmesan Thyme Sweet Potato Stacks Winter Pomegranate Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts Citrus Avocado Salad with Orange Tahini Vinaigrette Kale Caesar Salad with Sweet Potatoes and Crispy Chickpeas Lastly, if you make this Easiest No-Boil Brie Mac and Cheese. be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
