Rachael Ray Season 18 Episode 49 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Crostata + Rach's Twist on Mac 'n' Cheese

In this episode of Rachael Ray, the talk show host and celebrity chef prepares for the holiday season with some delicious and creative twists on classic dishes. First up is a mouth-watering make-ahead Thanksgiving crostata, perfect for those who want to save time on the big day. Rachael guides viewers through the steps of preparing the crust, filling, and assembling the crostata, which is filled with the flavors of fall, including roasted butternut squash, sage, caramelized onions, and goat cheese. With a crisp, buttery crust and savory filling, this crostata is sure to become a holiday favorite.

Next, Rachael shares her twist on mac 'n' cheese, putting her own spin on the classic comfort food by adding some unexpected ingredients and flavors. While the macaroni cooks, Rachael prepares a cheese sauce made with a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, fontina, and Gruyere. She then adds in some smoky bacon and crispy breadcrumbs, taking the dish to the next level of deliciousness. Rachael also shows viewers how to make a vegetarian version of the dish, using a creamy cauliflower sauce as a base instead of cheese.

Throughout the episode, Rachael provides tips and tricks for making Thanksgiving meal preparation stress-free, including advice on how to organize your shopping list, make the most of your time in the kitchen, and make use of leftovers. She also answers viewer questions and shares stories and memories from her own Thanksgiving celebrations over the years.

Overall, this episode of Rachael Ray offers a fun and informative look at Thanksgiving cooking and provides viewers with some exciting new ways to celebrate the holiday season with delicious and creative dishes. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this episode is sure to inspire you to try something new and make this year's Thanksgiving celebration one to remember.