Tik Tok Mac and Cheese Bake Holiday Version
We bring to you our version of the viral Tik Tok’s festive mac and cheese bake! It’s a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining creamy cheese sauce with pasta and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, it’s sure to be a hit at your Christmas table.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal side dish for your holiday feast.
Easy Christmas Mac and Cheese Bake Recipe

This mac and cheese bake features al dente pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. The dish takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping
- Chopped parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, mixing until well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
