Imagine creating the most decadent, creamy mac and cheese without the hassle of boiling pasta on the stovetop! 🧀 Our revolutionary No Boil Mac Cheese recipe is about to change your comfort food game forever. Say goodbye to multiple pots, constant stirring, and unnecessary kitchen chaos - this one-dish wonder delivers mind-blowing cheesy goodness with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Get ready to discover the easiest, most delicious mac and cheese recipe that will have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your mac and cheese bakes evenly and gets a nice golden crust.
- In a large baking dish, combine 2 cups of elbow macaroni, 4 cups of water, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Stir the ingredients together to distribute the salt and pepper evenly.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to trap steam and cook the pasta without boiling it on the stove.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This will allow the macaroni to cook and absorb the water, becoming tender.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Be cautious of the steam when you remove the foil.
- Add 1 cup of milk and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the cooked macaroni mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
- Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
- Once done, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. This will help the cheese sauce thicken up a bit.
- Serve the no boil mac and cheese warm, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy dish!
Tips
- Choose the right cheese: While cheddar is classic, experiment with cheese blends like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or gruyere for more complex flavors.
- Ensure even liquid distribution: Stir macaroni and water thoroughly before covering to prevent dry spots and ensure uniform cooking.
- Aluminum foil is crucial: Make sure to cover the baking dish tightly to trap steam and cook pasta evenly without traditional boiling.
- Watch cheese melting: In the final uncovered baking stage, keep an eye on the mac and cheese to achieve a perfect golden-brown top without burning.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 3-5 minutes after baking helps the cheese sauce set and become wonderfully creamy.
- Optional add-ins: Consider mixing in crispy bacon bits, breadcrumbs, or diced jalapeños for extra texture and flavor.
- Storage tip: This mac and cheese reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
