Are you ready to indulge in the creamiest, cheesiest comfort food that will make your taste buds dance? Say goodbye to the hassle of boiling pasta and hello to a delightful twist on a classic favorite with our Creamy No Boil Mac Cheese! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a dish that's not only simple to prepare but also packed with rich, gooey flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is a must-try for any mac and cheese lover. Dive into the creamy goodness and discover how easy it is to create a cheesy masterpiece that will impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni, 4 cups water, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup cream cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook the macaroni for about 7-8 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
- While the macaroni is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the drained macaroni back in. Then, add 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of cream cheese, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of salt, and 1/2 tsp of black pepper.
- Stir everything together until the cheese and cream cheese are melted and evenly distributed throughout the macaroni.
- Transfer the creamy macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired for an extra cheesy crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve your creamy no-boil mac and cheese warm, garnished with fresh herbs or additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- Cheese Choices: For an extra flavor boost, consider mixing different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Gouda along with the cheddar. This will add depth to the dish and make it even more delicious!
- Add-Ins Galore: Feel free to customize your mac and cheese by adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce for a kick. The possibilities are endless!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This will prevent your mac and cheese from becoming mushy.
- Baking Dish: Use a shallow baking dish for even cooking and a crispy top layer. If you want an extra cheesy crust, add more shredded cheese on top before baking.
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow your mac and cheese to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to scoop out perfect portions.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
