Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese. This delectable dish combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with the sumptuousness of a milk and cream blend, all in a convenient, hassle-free preparation. The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity—there’s no need for boiling pasta beforehand! Just layer everything together in a baking dish, and let the oven work its magic. In less than an hour, you’ll be rewarded with golden, bubbly mac and cheese that’s bound to please both kids and adults alike.

This creamy dish not only satisfies cravings but also caters to busy lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful side for a family gathering, or a make-ahead meal that’s easy to reheat, this is your go-to option. The vibrant flavors of the cheeses combined with a hint of garlic and mustard create a uniquely satisfying dish that will surely become a family favorite. So roll up your sleeves and dive into the cheesy goodness that is our No Boil Mac & Cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese

Convenience: No boiling required! Just mix, layer, and bake.
Time-saving: Ready in under 65 minutes, perfect for busy weeks.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves mac and cheese, and this version is extra creamy!
Rich Flavors: The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella offers a delightful cheesy experience.
Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a side, suitable for any occasion.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you jump into cooking your Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese, it is essential to prepare your kitchen and ensure you have the right tools at hand. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent any sticking. Gathering your ingredients ahead of time will also streamline the process. Make sure to have a large mixing bowl for blending your milk and cream mixture, as well as a whisk to ensure everything is combined smoothly.

Additionally, keep a measuring cup and spoons handy to get the measurements just right, which is crucial in achieving that perfect creamy texture. Gather utensils for serving and an oven mitt for handling hot dishes after baking. This well-organized preparation will help make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free!

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures that your mac and cheese doesn’t stick to the dish, making it easier to serve later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

Pour the dry elbow macaroni into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom. This step is crucial as it ensures that the pasta cooks evenly throughout the baking process without the need for prior boiling.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. This mixture is what gives our dish that rich and flavorful creamy texture that everyone loves. Whisk thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

To the creamy mixture, stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella. This helps infuse the sauce with cheesy goodness before pouring it over the dry pasta.

Step 5: Combine and Distribute

Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the dry macaroni in the baking dish. Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir the mixture and ensure each piece of pasta is well coated. This step is key for achieving that luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the top of the pasta and dot with small pieces of butter. This will help create that lovely golden crust while baking and add an extra layer of richness.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 50 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden top and tender macaroni throughout. If the top isn’t browning as much as you’d like, you may consider broiling it for an additional few minutes, but keep an eye on it.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

After removing from the oven, let your mac and cheese rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the dish to thicken and makes it easier to serve. Now enjoy!

Variations

Protein: Add cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef for a heartier dish.
Vegetables: Toss in steamed broccoli, chopped spinach, or diced tomatoes for some added nutrition.
Spices: Boost the flavor with a pinch of cayenne pepper, paprika, or Italian herbs.

Cooking Notes

Using freshly shredded cheese is highly recommended; it melts better and creates a smoother texture than pre-shredded varieties.
For even cooking, you may cover the baking dish with foil for the first 30 minutes, then uncover it to allow the top to brown for the remaining time.

Serving Suggestions

Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for an added flavor kick.

Tips

If you find the mac and cheese is too thick after reheating, simply add a splash of milk to restore its creaminess.
Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile—fontina, gouda, or even pepper jack can create delightful variations!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 65–75 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as per the package instructions.

How can I make this mac and cheese spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Can I prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few more minutes to the cooking time if it’s straight from the fridge.

What should I do if my mac and cheese is too thick?

If the mac and cheese is too thick for your liking, stir in a little extra milk or cream before serving to achieve your desired creaminess.

Conclusion

This Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate! It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen. Not to mention, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes! We hope you try this recipe and experience its cheesy goodness firsthand. Don’t forget to share your versions or any tweaks you make in the comments below. Happy cooking!