Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Without Roux (Creamy & Quick)

What about mac and cheese made with plenty of creaminess and cheesiness? This recipe will definitely suit anyone in need of delicious mac and cheese without making a roux. In other words, there won’t be any complications and no butter-flour mixture here, only yummy and creamy baked pasta prepared within 30 minutes!

It will come in handy if you are an inexperienced cook or want to try making a new dish in no time, especially if you live in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, or Australia. The best part of this recipe is that you won’t spend your precious hours preparing it and will get a tasty and satisfying dish in return.

If you need easy-to-make baked mac and cheese or just want to prepare a quick homemade recipe, it’s time to try this option!

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Ingredients

Below is a list of all ingredients required to make this baked mac and cheese recipe without using roux:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any other pasta)
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (or a mixture of cheddar and mozzarella cheese)
• 1 ½ cups milk (entire or 2%)
• ½ cup cream cheese (melted)
• Salt (½ tsp)
• Pepper (black) (½ tsp)
• Garlic powder (½ tsp)
• Mustard powder (optional)
• Paprika (optional)

Toppings:

• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• Optional extra cheese
• Parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

Here is how you can make creamy baked mac and cheese without making any roux:

Step 1: Prepare Pasta

In a pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Then, cook pasta according to the manufacturer’s instructions until done to al dente. Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Prepare Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, add milk, cream cheese, grated cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Mix Pasta and Cheese

Now, pour pasta into the cheese mixture and stir.

Step 5: Transfer Mixture to a Baking Dish

Pour the pasta mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Grease the pan first.

Step 6: Add Crumb and Cheese Topping

If you want your mac and cheese to be crispy, then prepare crumbs by melting butter and mixing it with bread crumbs. Sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs, followed by grated cheese if you like.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake it for 15-20 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

After taking the mac and cheese out of the oven, allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes.

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Cooking Suggestions and Alternatives

Add these suggestions to improve your simple baked macaroni and cheese recipe:

Suggested Recipes:

• Freshly shredded cheese for melting and smoother texture
• Undercook your macaroni; it will be cooked through in the oven
• Mix your cheese filling properly to prevent lumps

Alternatives:

• Super Creamy: Incorporate ½ cup of sour cream or heavy cream
• Hot Macaroni and Cheese: Include ½ tsp. of chili flakes or add some hot sauce
• Vegetable Additions: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas
• Gluten-Free Version: Employ gluten-free macaroni and gluten-free croutons

Dish Recommendations

For serving with this fast macaroni and cheese:

• Baked or grilled garlic bread
• Vegetables, grilled or roasted
• Simple side salad with vinaigrette dressing
• BBQ chicken or chicken tenders

Ideal for:

• Family dinners
• Children’s meals (dinner or lunch)
• Nights when you need comfort food
• Potlucks and get-togethers

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 350–400 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2–3g

Frequently Asked Questions