Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this herb garlic cream cheese macaroni will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No boiling required. The pasta cooks right in the oven.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Creamy and cheesy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves mac and cheese.
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Budget-friendly. Macaroni, cream cheese, and milk are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
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8 ounces tub herb garlic cream cheese
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2 cups whole milk
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Ingredient Notes
Macaroni: Use uncooked elbow macaroni.
Cream cheese: Use herb garlic cream cheese.
Milk: Use whole milk.
Mozzarella: Use shredded mozzarella.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
Step 2: Add the Macaroni
Spread the uncooked elbow macaroni evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese
Dollop the herb garlic cream cheese all over the macaroni, spacing it out so it can melt into the pasta as it bakes.
Step 4: Add the Milk and Cheese
Pour the milk evenly over the top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over everything.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Stir and Finish Baking
Remove the foil, stir well, and return the dish to the oven uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, until the macaroni is tender and the top is lightly golden.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the macaroni rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Herb Garlic Cream Cheese Macaroni
This creamy, cheesy macaroni is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Roast Chicken: A classic pairing.
With Steak: Perfect alongside a juicy steak.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With Extra Cheese: Add Parmesan on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Plain Cream Cheese: Use plain cream cheese and add garlic powder.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use shells or rotini.
Make It with Different Cheese: Use cheddar or provolone.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add diced onion.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not cook the pasta before baking. It cooks in the oven.
Cover tightly with foil. This traps the steam.
Stir halfway through. This ensures even cooking.
Let the macaroni rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Shells or rotini can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Cheddar or provolone can be used.
Can I use a different milk?
Yes. Half-and-half can be used for extra richness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes. Use up to 3 cups.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Yes. Use more milk and cheese.
The Amish Kitchen Wisdom
Amish cooking is about feeding a family well with what is available. It is about dishes that are simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.
This herb garlic cream cheese macaroni embodies that wisdom. Macaroni is a pantry staple. Cream cheese adds richness. Milk creates the sauce. Cheese adds flavor. Nothing is wasted. Everything is stretched.
Keep macaroni in your pantry. Keep cream cheese, milk, and cheese in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes covered, plus 15 to 20 minutes uncovered
Rest Time: 5 to 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings