Why Make This Recipe
One-Pot Mac and Cheese is a warm, comforting dish that everyone loves. It’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. You’ll enjoy creamy cheese goodness without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults!
How to Make One-Pot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Directions:
- Boil Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about one minute.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in milk until thickened (about three minutes).
- Melt Cheese: Reduce heat to low, stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Return drained macaroni to the pot, mixing until well coated with cheese sauce.
- Season & Serve: Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Serve warm.
How to Serve One-Pot Mac and Cheese
Serve One-Pot Mac and Cheese hot, straight from the pot. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For extra flavor, sprinkle some herbs or spices on top, like paprika or parsley.
How to Store One-Pot Mac and Cheese
To store leftover One-Pot Mac and Cheese, let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Tips to Make One-Pot Mac and Cheese
- Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients, such as cooked bacon, broccoli, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrients and taste.
- To make it even creamier, add a little cream cheese or sour cream!
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using different types of cheese, like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack. This gives you a unique twist on the classic dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour for the roux.
3. How can I make it more cheesy?
To make it extra cheesy, add more cheese than the recipe calls for. You can also mix in cream cheese or a cheese sauce.
One-Pot Mac and Cheese
A quick and easy one-pot mac and cheese recipe that’s creamy and comforting, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about one minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk until thickened (about three minutes).
- Reduce heat to low, stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return drained macaroni to the pot, mixing until well coated with cheese sauce.
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle some herbs or spices on top, like paprika or parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg