NO-BOIL MAC AND CHEESE
Try this NO-BOIL MAC AND CHEESE recipe
Try this NO-BOIL MAC AND CHEESE recipe
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 clove garlic minced or grated
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup shredded havarti cheese
- 3 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 1/2 cups milk (i use 2%)
- 1 cup progressoâ„¢ panko crispy bread crumbs or progressoâ„¢
- parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Carbohydrate 63.6927063946358 g
- Cholesterol 110.501116188226 mg
- Fat 38.2501159055587 g
- Fiber 2.45180934312821 g
- Protein 27.7865987516842 g
- Saturated Fat 23.7652036296301 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (230g)
- Sodium 476.193287558879 mg
- Sugar 61.2408970515076 g
- Trans Fat 2.54412328706326 g
- Calories 711 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Add the pasta and about 1 cup of cheddar cheese to the prepared baking dish, set aside.
- Melt 4 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add flour, whisking constantly, for about 2 minutes. Whisk in milk and 1 1/2 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook, whisking often, until a very thin, glossy sauce forms, about 10 minutes. Stir in the mustard powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt and pepper. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the remaining 2 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the pasta, stirring to coat. The pasta should be submerged in the sauce. Cover with foil and bake until pasta is almost tender, about 25 minutes.
- Meanwhile, wipe your same sauce pot clean, then add remaining 4 tablespoons melted butter. Add garlic and breadcrumbs, toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper. If desired you can toast the crumbs over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove the pasta from the oven and remove the foil from dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup havarti cheese, then the breadcrumb mixture. Bake until pasta is tender, edges are bubbling, and top is golden brown, about 10-20 minutes longer. Let sit 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
My Go-To Comfort Food: No-Boil Mac and Cheese
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present struggle to get dinner on the table before everyone's patience (and hunger levels) reach critical mass. That's why I've developed a deep appreciation for quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying recipes – and this No-Boil Mac and Cheese is a shining example.
The best part? It requires minimal prep time and uses ingredients I usually already have on hand. No more frantic trips to the grocery store for a missing ingredient just when you're short on time! This recipe is a lifesaver, especially when I'm juggling a million things at once. The creamy, cheesy goodness is irresistible, and the kids absolutely devour it. It’s the kind of dish that brings a sense of calm to a chaotic evening – a small moment of deliciousness in the midst of the everyday craziness.
Beyond the Weeknight Wonder: This No-Boil Mac and Cheese isn't just a weeknight warrior; it’s also surprisingly versatile. I’ve served it at casual get-togethers, potlucks, and even as a side dish for a more formal dinner. The beautiful golden-brown topping and the aroma alone are enough to impress guests, while the ease of preparation ensures I can actually enjoy the party, too! I've experimented with different cheeses – adding a bit of pepper jack for a kick or using Gruyere for a more sophisticated flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
A Simple Recipe, Endless Possibilities: What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. It's a blank canvas waiting for your culinary creativity. Want to add some cooked bacon or ham for extra protein? Go for it! Craving a spicier mac and cheese? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of pasta, breadcrumbs, or even add some roasted vegetables for a healthier twist.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its speed and simplicity but in its ability to bring comfort and satisfaction to the table. In a world where time is always of the essence, this No-Boil Mac and Cheese offers a delightful escape – a taste of home, warmth, and good food, all without the fuss. It's the epitome of comfort food perfection, a dish that consistently delivers a delicious and satisfying experience, regardless of the chaos that might be swirling around in my life.
More than just a meal: This recipe is a reminder that even in the midst of a busy life, there’s always room for a little joy, comfort, and deliciousness. It’s more than just a dinner; it’s a small act of self-care, a moment to pause and savor the simple pleasure of a perfectly cheesy, comforting meal. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or short on time, remember this recipe. It's a testament to the fact that even the simplest meals can be extraordinary.
Serving Suggestions: This Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It's also amazing served with grilled chicken or fish. For a truly indulgent experience, consider adding a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping into the extra cheesy sauce.
