Craving a comforting bowl of mac and cheese but want to skip the flour? You’re in for a treat! This "Mac Cheese Without Flour" recipe is not only quick to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, but it also delivers that creamy, cheesy goodness you love without the extra carbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to indulge in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that clings to perfectly cooked macaroni, making every bite a delightful experience. Dive into this easy recipe and discover how to elevate your mac and cheese game!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce by combining milk and cream cheese in a separate large saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Whisk the milk and cream cheese together until smooth and fully incorporated, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the milk mixture, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it completely in a colander, shaking off excess water.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and immediately add the shredded cheese to the hot pasta.
- Pour the warm milk and cream cheese sauce over the pasta and cheese, stirring gently to create a creamy, even coating.
- Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or additional cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cheese: For the best flavor, use a combination of cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a hint of Parmesan to enhance the richness of your sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the cheese sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Whisk Thoroughly: When combining the milk and cream cheese, make sure to whisk well to avoid lumps. A smooth sauce is key to a perfect mac and cheese.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before mixing it with the pasta. You can always add more garlic powder, salt, or pepper to suit your palate.
- Garnish for Presentation: Consider garnishing your mac and cheese with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or a sprinkle of extra cheese for a beautiful finish.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add in extras like cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a dash of hot sauce for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 85mg
