Trader Joe’s Holiday Hash Mac and Cheese Bake
Turn Trader Joe’s Creamy Mac and Cheese into a festive side dish with this easy Holiday Hash Mac and Cheese Bake. Using just ½ a container of Trader Joe’s Holiday Vegetable Hash, a sprinkle of Aglio Olio seasoning, and a crispy Panko-Parmesan topping, this casserole comes out bubbly, golden, and full of cozy flavor. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or any weeknight comfort meal.
Equipment
- 9x9 backing dish
Ingredients
- 2 containers Trader Joe's Creamy Mac and Cheese
- ½ container Trader Joe's Holiday Vegetable Hash
- 1 ½ tbsp Trader Joe's Aglio Olio Seasoning
- ½ cup Trader Joe's Panko
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven.
- Set the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish (or an oval baking dish of similar size).
Sauté the Holiday Hash.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ½ container of Holiday Vegetable Hash. Sprinkle with salt and the tablespoon of Aglio Olio seasoning. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and develop some golden-brown bits.
Prepare the mac and cheese.
- While the hash cooks, heat both containers of mac and cheese according to the package directions (microwave or stovetop). You want it hot and creamy so it mixes easily.
Combine
- Pour the warm mac and cheese into a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed Holiday Hash and stir to combine until evenly distributed. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Assemble the topping
- In a small bowl, mix together the panko, Parmesan, and a teaspoon of Aglio Olio seasoning. For extra crispness, drizzle with a touch of olive oil and toss to coat.
Bake
- Spread the mac and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the topping mixture over the top. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Cool and serve
- Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving so it sets slightly. Garnish with a few parsley leaves if you want to look fancy.
Notes
💡 Tips & Variations
- Add cooked chicken sausage or smoked gouda for a heartier main dish.
- Substitute frozen Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese or Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese if needed. You'll need to warm it up until not frozen anymore and if too dry add some cream.
- For a crispier top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes of baking.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer; cover with foil so the top doesn’t burn.