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Easy One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese

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A quick and creamy one-pot stovetop mac and cheese recipe ready in 15 minutes, perfect for a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 225 grams)
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk (600 ml)
  • 1 cup water (240 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium to large saucepan, combine 2 ½ cups milk, 1 cup water, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir gently.
  2. Add 8 ounces dry elbow macaroni to the saucepan and stir to submerge all the pasta.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes until pasta is tender but firm (al dente).
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
  5. Gradually add 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ½ teaspoon mustard powder, stirring gently until cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Add a splash of milk if sauce is too thick.
  6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should be smooth, rich, and clingy to the pasta.
  7. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs.

Notes

Stir often while cooking to avoid pasta sticking. Add cheese gradually off the heat to prevent grainy sauce. Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Add veggies or protein for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, mac and cheese, stovetop, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/easy-one-pot-stovetop-mac-and-cheese-recipe-in-15-minutes-for-perfect-comfort-meal/