This recipe is a creamy, cheesy delight that skips the roux and eggs, making it simpler yet incredibly flavorful. The combination of five cheeses creates a rich and indulgent dish that's perfect for a comforting meal. The layering and baking process ensures a golden, bubbly top that will make your...

5-Cheese Mac and Cheese (No Roux, No Egg) recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
50min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion of mac and cheese)

Pasta and seasoning

  • chicken bouillon
    chicken bouillon
    1tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1pinch
  • pasta of your choice
    pasta of your choice
    1lb

Cheese sauce

  • heavy cream
    heavy cream
    2cups
  • butter
    butter
    3tbsp
  • garlic paste
    garlic paste
    1tsp
  • onion powder
    onion powder
    1/2tsp
  • smoked paprika
    smoked paprika
    1/2tsp

Cheese

  • different cheeses (or just one you like), divided
    different cheeses (or just one you like), divided
    5cups

How to make 5-Cheese Mac and Cheese (No Roux, No Egg)

Cook the pasta

  1. Step 1

    Boil water in a pot and add chicken bouillon and salt.

  2. Step 2

    Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and stir immediately.

  3. Step 3

    Do not add oil to the water.

  4. Step 4

    Cook until al dente, then drain.

Make the cheese sauce

  1. Step 1

    In a pan, melt butter and add garlic paste, salt, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

  2. Step 2

    Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.

  3. Step 3

    Add ⅓ of your cheeses and stir until melted.

Combine pasta and sauce

  1. Step 1

    Add half of the cheese sauce to the cooked pasta.

  2. Step 2

    Add ⅓ of the cheese to the pasta-sauce mixture and stir well.

Layer and bake

  1. Step 1

    In a baking dish, place half of the pasta mixture.

  2. Step 2

    Add a layer of cheese.

  3. Step 3

    Add the remaining pasta and top with the last bit of cheese.

  4. Step 4

    Bake until golden brown on top.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

827.5kcal (41.38%)

Protein

33.7g (67.34%)

Carbs

52.0g (18.91%)

Sugars

3.3g (6.66%)

Healthy Fat

17.4g

Unhealthy Fat

32.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.

  2. Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded for better melting.

  3. Let the baked mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

FAQS

  1. Can I use just one type of cheese?

    Yes, you can use just one type of cheese, but using a mix of cheeses adds depth and complexity to the flavor.

  2. Can I make this ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

  3. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

    Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or shells work best as they hold the sauce well.

  4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

    Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

  5. How do I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

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The Cozy Crumb - Sprinkling comfort, one crumb at a time

(@thecozycrumb)

Hi, I’m Viki, the face behind thecozycrumb. I’ve always believed that food is more than just fuel -it’s joy, comfort, and creativity rolled into one....

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