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One-Pot Mac And Cheese Recipe One-Pot Mac And Cheese Recipe

Recipe

One-Pot Mac And Cheese Recipe

Written by: Emily Smith

Whipping up my one-pot mac and cheese is a breeze. Just cook, drain, melt, stir, whisk, season, and mix. Voila! Creamy, cheesy comfort food ready to warm your belly.

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You ever find yourself craving something cheesy, comforting, and ridiculously easy to whip up? That's exactly where I found myself last Tuesday evening. And what better solution than mac and cheese? Not that boxed stuff though, no, no. I'm talking homemade, steamy, gooey, cheddar-rich one-pot mac and cheese. Admittedly, a simple dish, but oh, the satisfaction it brings! Cooking it filled my kitchen with the heady scent of melting cheese, already making my mouth water. Trust me; you've got to try this. Your taste buds will thank you.

Ingredients for One-Pot Mac and Cheese

  • Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds the creamy cheese sauce well, providing a comforting and familiar texture to the dish.
  • Cheddar cheese: Sharp and flavorful cheese that melts beautifully, giving the mac and cheese its rich and indulgent taste.
  • Milk: Adds creaminess and richness to the cheese sauce, creating a smooth and velvety texture for the mac and cheese.
  • Butter: Enhances the flavor and richness of the cheese sauce, providing a silky and luscious mouthfeel to the dish.
  • All-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce, helping to bind the ingredients together and create a creamy and cohesive mac and cheese.

Did you know that adding a touch of mustard powder to your one-pot mac and cheese can enhance the flavor and give it a subtle kick? Mustard powder pairs beautifully with cheddar cheese and adds a depth of flavor that will surprise your taste buds! Give it a try next time you whip up this dish. Enjoy!

Kitchen Tools Required

  • Pot: Essential for cooking the macaroni.
  • Whisk: Needed to mix the cheese sauce until smooth and creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rotini.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
You can add ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack.
How can I make this recipe more creamy?
To make the mac and cheese creamier, you can add a bit more milk or cream to the sauce.
Can I add vegetables or protein to this dish?
Yes, feel free to mix in cooked broccoli, peas, bacon, or cooked chicken to add more depth and nutrition to the dish.

Serves: 4 people

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
  4. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional value:

Per Serving in Calories: 550 kcal | Carbohydrates: 45 g | Protein: 20 g | Total Fat: 32 g | Saturated Fat: 20 g | Trans Fat: 1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g | Cholesterol: 90 mg | Sodium: 600 mg | Dietary Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 5 g | Calcium: 500 mg | Potassium: 300 mg | Iron: 2 mg | Vitamin A: 800 µg | Vitamin C: 0 mg

Can You Make One-Pot Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?

Make Ahead Instructions

  • Prepare the mac and cheese as directed but do not bake.
  • Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  • When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Freezing Instructions

  • Prepare the mac and cheese but do not bake.
  • Place in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

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