One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that can be made quickly and with minimal cleanup, the One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe is your perfect solution. This creamy, cheesy delight is simple to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can adapt it to fit your taste or what you have on hand.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 39g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 790mg
Why Make One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella for that perfect cheesy experience. With its one-pot preparation, you save time on both cooking and cleaning, allowing for more moments with your loved ones. Plus, you can sneak in some vegetables or proteins for a more balanced meal without losing that creamy goodness.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
2 cups uncooked macaroni or pasta of your choice
3 cups water
3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
2.5 cups sharp cheddar, freshly grated
2 cups mozzarella, freshly grated
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1.5 tbsp paprika (adjust to taste)
1 tsp mustard
1.5 tsp sugar
Directions
Grate the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and have all your seasonings and liquids measured and ready to go. In a pot, add the uncooked macaroni and pour in the 3 cups of water. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions or until just al dente, stirring occasionally. Keep the heat low enough so that most of the water evaporates but leaves a slight amount of liquid in the pot to help create creaminess.
Lower the heat to low, then add the heavy whipping cream, grated sharp cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard, and sugar. Stir thoroughly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately while hot for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
This dish shines on its own but can be paired with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside crispy garlic bread or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with fresh herbs.
How to Store One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Expert Tips for Cooking One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
- For a deeper flavor, try using smoked cheddar cheese or adding cooked bacon bits.
- Feel free to toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for a healthy boost.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes – shells, cavatappi, or shells can elevate the dish.
- If you want a crustier finish, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and broil it for a few minutes after cooking.
- Always taste before serving; adjustments in seasoning can make a big difference.
Delicious Variations of One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Consider adding a kick with spicy jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for heat. You can also create a herbed version by stirring in fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking. For a refreshing twist, try adding lemon zest, or keep it vegetarian by mixing in your favorite veggies.
Conclusion
Trust us, once you try this One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe, it will become a go-to comfort meal in your home. Its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and endless adaptability make it a must-try dish for everyone. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Grate the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and have all your seasonings and liquids measured and ready to go.
- In a pot, add the uncooked macaroni and pour in the 3 cups of water. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the pasta according to package instructions or until just al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Keep the heat low enough so that most of the water evaporates but leaves a slight amount of liquid in the pot to help create creaminess.
- Lower the heat to low, then add the heavy whipping cream, grated sharp cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard, and sugar.
- Stir thoroughly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve immediately while hot for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
