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Creamy No-Boil Mac and Cheese: Easy Friendsgiving Side Recipe

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This creamy no-boil mac and cheese is a crowd-pleasing, ultra-comforting side dish perfect for Friendsgiving or any gathering. With no boiling required, everything mixes in one pan and bakes to golden, cheesy perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz uncooked elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 3 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup extra shredded cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 3-quart baking dish with butter or oil.
  2. Add uncooked elbow macaroni to the baking dish. Sprinkle in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese (broken into small pieces).
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, ground mustard, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. Small lumps of cream cheese are okay.
  4. Pour the milk mixture over the pasta and cheese. Stir gently to combine. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over, if using.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake on the center rack for 30 minutes.
  6. Remove foil. If using, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top, followed by extra shredded cheese.
  7. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly and the edges are slightly crispy.
  8. Test for doneness by inserting a fork into the center; pasta should be tender. If still firm, cover and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based cheeses and unsweetened almond milk. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking for best texture. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded. Customize with seasonal veggies or different cheese blends.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, no-boil, Friendsgiving, easy side dish, creamy, comfort food, casserole, holiday, vegetarian, crowd-pleaser

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/creamy-no-boil-mac-and-cheese-easy-friendsgiving-side-recipe/