There’s nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of mac and cheese. But what if you could skip the oven and still get that velvety, cheesy perfection? This no-bake mac and cheese recipe is here to save the day (and your kitchen time). It’s rich, creamy, and packs a little kick thanks to a blend of white cheddar, pepper jack, and warm spices. Best of all, it’s beginner-friendly and doesn’t require using a million dishes.

Grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a macaroni masterpiece in just a few easy steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your no-bake mac and cheese magic.

    • 1 pound of macaroni or cavatappi pasta
    • 3 cups of half-and-half
    • 8 ounces of white cheddar, shredded
    • 8 ounces of pepper jack, shredded
    • 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
    • 1 stick of butter (½ cup)
    • 1 tablespoon mustard powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon cumin
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • ½ teaspoon white pepper

Pro tip: When choosing cheeses, go for blocks that you shred yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often includes anti-caking agents, which can make your sauce less creamy.

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Pre-Cook the Macaroni Noodles

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. Since this is a no-bake recipe, it’s best to cook the pasta to just al dente (firm to the bite). This ensures it holds up in the creamy sauce without getting mushy.

Once the noodles are done, drain them, but don’t rinse. Why? The starchy coating helps the sauce cling to every nook and cranny of the pasta. Set the cooked macaroni aside.

2. Mix and Prep the Sauce Base

While your noodles cook, take a small bowl and whisk together the dry seasonings. Combine the mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, white pepper, cumin, salt, and cornstarch. This little spice blend is going to be your secret weapon, infusing the cheese sauce with loads of flavor.

3. Start the Cheese Sauce

Melt the Butter

Grab a large, heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan (the same one you used for the noodles can work). Place it over medium heat and melt the stick of butter. Don’t rush this step; melted butter is the base of your sauce’s creaminess.

Create the Thickening Roux

Once the butter is fully melted, reduce the heat slightly and slowly whisk in your pre-mixed seasonings and cornstarch. This step is key because the cornstarch will act as the thickener for your sauce. Stir continuously for about 1–2 minutes, until the mixture starts to form a smooth, fragrant paste. You don’t want it to brown, so keep an eye on the heat!

4. Add the Half-and-Half Slowly

Now, gradually pour in the half-and-half while whisking constantly. Adding it a little at a time ensures the roux blends smoothly, creating a lump-free base. Once it’s all incorporated, increase the heat slightly and keep stirring until the sauce starts to thicken. This will take about 3–5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce coats the back of a spoon.

5. Melt the Cheese

With your thickened sauce base ready, it’s time for the most important step. Reduce the heat to low and start gradually adding the shredded cheeses. Add a small handful at a time, whisking well after each addition to ensure that the cheese melts completely and doesn’t clump.

The white cheddar gives your sauce a sharp, creamy base, while the pepper jack adds a bit of heat and personality. Taste as you go and feel free to adjust the spice level with a pinch of extra white pepper or cumin.

Once all the cheese is melted, you’ll have the silkiest, dreamiest cheese sauce imaginable.

6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

It’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked macaroni into the pot of cheese sauce, folding gently with a spatula or large spoon. Keep stirring until every inch of the pasta is covered in that luscious sauce.

If the sauce seems a little thick, no worries! Just whisk in a splash of warm milk or even reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Tips for Getting It Just Right

  1. Use Low Heat for Cheese: High heat can cause your cheese to separate or become gritty. Keep the temperature moderate, especially when melting the cheese.
  2. Season Boldly: Don’t skip the spice blend! It brings depth to the dish and balances the creamy cheese.
  3. Keep It Creamy: If the sauce thickens too much while you’re serving, stir in a touch of warm half-and-half for a quick fix.

Ways to Serve Your No-Bake Mac & Cheese

This mac and cheese is amazing on its own, but here are a few ideas to take it to the next level:

  • Add Crunch: Top each bowl with crushed buttery crackers, toasted breadcrumbs, or crumbled bacon for texture.
  • Throw in Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrients.
  • Protein Boost: Turn it into a heartier dish by adding shredded rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, or grilled shrimp.
  • Party Platter: Serve it alongside BBQ ribs, fried chicken, or a fresh green salad for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Making no-bake mac and cheese doesn’t get easier (or tastier) than this! With its creamy sauce, bold flavors, and just a touch of spice, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit, whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or a side at your next get-together.