Name: Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1/2 cup extra shredded cheese for topping

This Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish for busy nights or when you simply want something rich, warm, and absolutely effortless. With no need to pre-cook the pasta, this one-dish wonder delivers ooey-gooey cheesy perfection with a golden crust that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or lazy Sunday craving, this baked macaroni and cheese is the creamy classic you’ve been waiting for.

What makes this mac & cheese stand out is the silky cheese sauce that hugs every noodle, turning simple pantry staples into an indulgent, crave-worthy bake. It’s designed to bake the uncooked pasta right in the cheese mixture, saving time and dishes. Plus, the balance of sharp cheddar and melty cheeses creates a deep flavor with a luscious texture that doesn’t dry out.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this creamy delight, gather your tools to ensure everything flows smoothly:

Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for whisking the cheese sauce ingredients together thoroughly.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters here, especially for balancing the liquids to cook the pasta just right.
Whisk: Helps you achieve a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.

9×13″ Baking Dish: A must for even cooking and that beautiful baked top.
Aluminum Foil: Keeps the moisture locked in during the initial baking phase.
Grater (optional): If you’re using block cheese, grating fresh adds extra meltability and flavor.

Once prepped with these tools, you’ll move seamlessly from mixing to baking to golden cheesy goodness.

Ingredients for the Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving that rich, creamy, and perfectly cooked texture without pre-boiling:

Elbow Macaroni: The heart of the dish. Its hollow shape holds the cheesy sauce, and it’s sturdy enough to bake without boiling.

Whole Milk: Provides the liquid needed to cook the pasta and keeps the texture creamy rather than watery.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and a silky finish to the sauce.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Delivers bold flavor and that classic mac & cheese taste.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding stretchy, gooey texture.
Cream Cheese: Introduces a smooth tanginess and helps emulsify the sauce.
Butter: Gives the sauce depth and contributes to the baked topping.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors.
Garlic Powder (optional): Adds a subtle, savory background note.

How To Make the Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Base

In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and chunks of cream cheese until combined.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni into the cheese mixture and stir until every piece is coated. It will look a little loose—that’s perfect!

Step 4: Transfer and Cover

Spoon everything into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and cook the pasta.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Bake for 35-40 minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb liquid and soften fully in the sauce.

Step 6: Uncover and Finish

Remove the foil and give everything a gentle stir. Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese on top and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and set. Enjoy that first creamy, dreamy bite!

How to Serve and Store Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese

Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese is best served hot and fresh from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to settle before scooping generous portions onto plates. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even as a decadent side to barbecue or fried chicken.

If you have leftovers, transfer them into airtight containers once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to restore the creamy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Elbow macaroni is ideal because it cooks evenly and holds the cheese sauce well. You can substitute with shells or cavatappi, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect how smoothly it melts. For the creamiest results, grate cheese from a block.

Is it really okay not to boil the pasta first?

Yes! The key is using the right ratio of liquid and covering the dish during baking. The pasta absorbs moisture as it cooks, becoming tender and flavorful.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free elbow pasta and ensure your cheeses and seasonings are also gluten-free.

How do I make it spicier?

You can mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture for a spicy twist.

Can I add meat or veggies?

Definitely. Cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed spinach and broccoli can be added before baking for extra texture and flavor.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese, you’ll want to try these other satisfying and cheesy favorites:

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken – Crispy, creamy, and full of restaurant-style flavor.
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells – Perfect for a meatless comfort meal with loads of melty cheese.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – A creamy, layered casserole twist on a classic dish.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole – Rich, hearty, and so easy to assemble.
Scalloped Corn Casserole – A sweet-and-savory side dish that feels like a hug.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you add bacon? Maybe a crunchy topping? Or stick with the classic creamy route?

I love seeing how others bring these recipes to life—drop your twist or tips below and help inspire the next cheesy masterpiece!

Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings

Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy No Boil Mac & Cheese is a one-dish miracle—no boiling required! Each bite is layered with melty cheese and tender pasta, making it a comforting favorite for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holidays. It’s ultra-creamy, golden-topped, and irresistibly easy.