This oven-baked Amish-style cream cheese chive macaroni is the kind of practical casserole that turns a handful of supermarket staples into a rich, comforting dinner with very little fuss. The method is especially appealing because the uncooked elbow macaroni goes straight into the baking dish, then gets covered with creamy ingredients so it softens and bakes right in the oven. It has the cozy spirit of old-fashioned church-supper casseroles, with the tang of chive cream cheese giving the finished dish an easy boost of flavor.
Serve this macaroni with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, roasted green beans, or simple sliced tomatoes to balance the richness. It also fits nicely beside baked ham, rotisserie chicken, or meatloaf if you want to make it part of a larger meal, though it is hearty enough to stand on its own with a little black pepper scattered over the top.
Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Cream Cheese Chive Macaroni
Servings: 6
Ingredients
8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
8 ounces tub cream cheese with chives
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread the uncooked elbow macaroni evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Spoon the chive cream cheese over the macaroni in small dollops, then spread it as evenly as possible across the top.
4. Pour the milk evenly over the dish, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, stir gently to help the cream cheese and cheddar melt into the milk, then smooth the mixture back into an even layer.
6. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for 20 to 25 minutes more, or until the macaroni is tender and the top is lightly golden. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips
Add a buttery top: For a little more texture, scatter a handful of buttered bread crumbs or crushed crackers over the casserole during the last 15 minutes of baking so the top gets crisp while the inside stays creamy.
Use a different cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the most classic flavor, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheddar-Mozzarella blend also work well. If you swap cheeses, keep at least one good-melting cheese in the mix for the smoothest sauce.
Adjust the consistency: If your casserole seems too thick, stir in a small splash of warm milk after baking. If you prefer a firmer casserole that cuts into squares, let it rest a bit longer before serving.
Make it a full meal: Stir in cooked diced ham, shredded chicken, or steamed broccoli after the first covered bake if you want to turn this simple macaroni into a more complete one-pan supper.