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ONE POT CREAMY MAC AND CHEESE RECIPE

This one-pot recipe makes creamy and delicious mac and cheese with minimal effort. Everything cooks together in one pot, making it a quick and easy meal.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 500 kcal
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended for creaminess)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
  • 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Colby)
  • Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, cooked bacon crumbles, chopped chives or green onions

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Combine ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the macaroni, chicken broth (or vegetable broth), milk, heavy cream (if using), butter, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the macaroni: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Add the cheese: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely incorporated.
  4. Serve: Serve the mac and cheese immediately. Top with breadcrumbs, cooked bacon crumbles, or chopped chives/green onions, if desired.

Notes

  • Broth vs. Water: Using broth instead of water adds more flavor to the mac and cheese.
  • Milk and Cream: Using whole milk and heavy cream will result in a richer and creamier mac and cheese. You can adjust the amount of milk and cream to your preference.
  • Cheese: Use a good quality cheese that melts well. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese is always best.
  • Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or dry mustard.

Nutrition Information

Calories 500kcal (25%) Carbohydrates 50g (17%) Protein 25g (50%) Fat 35g (54%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6people

Amount Per Serving

Calories 500

% Daily Value*

Calories 500kcal 25%
Carbohydrates 50g 17%
Protein 25g 50%
Fat 35g 54%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.