Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

Indulging in creamy macaroni and cheese is one of the ultimate comfort foods, especially during the holiday season. This Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese recipe takes a classic dish and elevates it with the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash and the rich taste of pancetta. Each bite delivers a warm hug, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

The blend of cheeses and crispy topping creates a beautiful golden crust, making it visually appealing. You’ll find that this dish is a delightful and festive twist on a beloved classic that everyone will enjoy.

Why Make This Recipe

This Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese recipe is simply irresistible. Packed with flavors, it adds a unique touch to holiday meals. The addition of butternut squash not only boosts the nutrition but also gives the dish a beautiful orange hue.

Moreover, the crispy panko breadcrumb topping provides a delightful crunch contrasting with the creamy pasta. It’s a perfect way to bring joy and comfort to your holiday gatherings, and it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Equipment Needed for Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

To create this delicious holiday dish, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment:

Microwave-safe dish
Blender
Skillet
Mixing bowls
8×8 baking dish
Oven

These simple tools will help you efficiently put together this flavorful macaroni and cheese.

What You Need to Make Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

1 1/2 Cups butternut squash, cubed
1/2 Cup half and half
4 Ounces pancetta, chopped
1 Tablespoon butter
2 Tablespoons olive oil
1/4 Cup onions, diced
1/2 Teaspoon garlic, minced
1 Package Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese
Pinch nutmeg
1/2 Cup + 3 Tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 Cup panko breadcrumbs
1 Tablespoon butter, melted
1 Teaspoon sage, minced

How to Cook Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese Step by Step

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Next, take the diced butternut squash and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish and microwave the squash for about seven minutes or until it becomes tender.

Once done, carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Pour in the half and half, and then blend the mixture until it is smooth. Set the pureed butternut squash aside as you move on to the next steps.

In a skillet set over medium heat, add the chopped pancetta. Cook the pancetta for about six minutes, or until it is lightly browned and crisp. After cooking, drain the pancetta on paper towels to remove excess grease and set it aside. Carefully pour off any remaining grease from the pan and return it to the stove.

Now it’s time to add some flavor. Heat olive oil in the same skillet and add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions become translucent, which will take just a few minutes. Once they are done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the mixture aside.

Next, take the package of Bob Evans Macaroni and Cheese. Remove the board overwrap, vent the film, and microwave it for three minutes. This makes it easier to combine with the other ingredients.

In a mixing bowl, combine the prepared Bob Evans Macaroni and Cheese, the pureed butternut squash, the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, a pinch of nutmeg, and half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Once combined, carefully pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into an 8×8 baking dish.

For the topping, in another mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, minced sage, and three tablespoons of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the breadcrumbs are well coated.

Sprinkle this mixture over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish.

Bake the dish in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Look for a golden brown and bubbly top to know it’s ready.

When finished, let the macaroni and cheese cool for five minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle, making it even more delicious.

How to Make Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

Making this Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese is truly simple and straightforward. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools.

Work efficiently and follow the steps one after another. The microwave does most of the hard work for you when preparing the butternut squash and Bob Evans Macaroni and Cheese.

This dish allows you to enjoy the creamy texture and satisfying flavors while preparing ahead for holiday celebrations. Be sure to mix in the pancetta and toppings well for maximum flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

This delightful dish can be served as a main course or as a side at your holiday gatherings. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

When serving, dish out generous portions topped with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese for added flair.

As for drinks, pairing it with a light Chardonnay or sparkling apple cider can complement the flavors perfectly, enhancing the entire dining experience.

What to Serve with Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

To create a well-rounded holiday meal, consider the following side dishes to serve alongside the Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese:

Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness complements the creamy cheese.
Green bean casserole: A classic holiday dish that balances the richness of the macaroni and cheese.
Cranberry sauce: The sweetness and tartness add a refreshing contrast.
Mixed green salad with vinaigrette: Provides freshness and a light crunch to balance the meal.

These side dishes will help create a festive and complete dining experience everyone will love.

How to Store Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

Leftovers from your Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese can be stored efficiently. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerate and enjoy it within three to four days. The flavors will continue to meld together as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

You can also freeze the macaroni and cheese for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it is sealed tightly. It should maintain its quality for up to three months.

Tips to Make Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

To ensure your macaroni and cheese comes out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:

Use fresh butternut squash for a richer flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-cut squash can be an easy alternative.
Don’t skip the pancetta. Its crispy texture and smokiness elevate the dish significantly.
When baking, cover the dish with aluminum foil if the top begins to brown too quickly. This ensures the insides cook through without burning the top.
Experiment with different cheeses. Adding Gruyère or Monterey Jack can give a unique twist to the flavor of the dish.

These tips will enhance flavor and texture, making each serving irresistible.

Variation

There are several ways to put a twist on this Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese recipe based on personal preferences:

For a vegetarian option, omit the pancetta and add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Spice it up by incorporating jalapeños or diced green chilies to add heat.
Use different types of pasta for a unique texture—elbow macaroni can be replaced with shells or cavatappi for variety.
Try different flavored panko breadcrumbs or mix-ins like truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

These variations allow you to cater the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.

Best Time to Make Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese

The best time to make this Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese is around the holiday season when gatherings and celebrations are frequent.

However, it also makes a fantastic cozy meal during cold winter days or weekends when you want something comforting.

Making it ahead for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings means less stress and more time to enjoy the festivities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this dish, be careful to avoid a few common mistakes:

Overcooking the butternut squash can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it while microwaving for the perfect consistency.
Don’t rush the baking process: Allowing it to bake fully develops flavors and ensures a crispy topping.
Be cautious not to use too much liquid. The half-and-half should add creaminess, but too much can make the dish watery.
Forgetting to let the dish cool before serving can lead to messy portions and less enjoyable textures.

By avoiding these pitfalls, your macaroni and cheese will be a standout addition to any meal.

Nutritional Notes

While Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful treat, it’s always good to consider balance. The addition of butternut squash adds vitamins and fiber to the dish.

It’s still rich in calories, due to the cheese and pancetta, so moderation is key. Pairing it with healthy sides can help create a nutritional balance during holiday indulgences.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerances.

Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and bake it right before serving.

How can I reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. Add a splash of water or milk to keep it creamy.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Holiday Macaroni and Cheese is not just another side dish; it’s a flavorful, comforting meal that brings warmth and joy to any holiday table. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that delights both the eyes and taste buds.

With its savory blend of cheeses, the sweetness of butternut squash, and the crispiness from panko, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy making it for your next festive gathering or just as a comforting meal on a chilly evening.