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Quick Mac and Cheese for One
4.9 from 426 votes

Quick Mac and Cheese for One

Quick Mac and Cheese for One is a single-serving comfort dish featuring cooked macaroni mixed with a creamy cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and sharp cheddar. Seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg and cayenne, it delivers a smooth, cheesy texture with a hint of warmth. This recipe suits those seeking a fast, homemade mac and cheese portion.

Prep Time
1 min
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
20 mins
Servings: 1
Calories: 641 kcal
Course: Lunch, Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 2.5 ounces macaroni or pasta of choice, uncooked, 1/2 cup
  • 1 tablespoon butter salted
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup milk any percentage
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese 2 oz, shredded, sharp
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • cayenne pepper optional, pinch
  • nutmeg optional, pinch

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Bring a small pot of lightly salted water to boil over high heat.
  2. While your water heats, shred cheese, measure out the rest of your ingredients.
  3. Cook macaroni according to the instructions on the box.
  4. While your pasta cooks, in a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook until a thick paste forms and turns golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk, whisking out any lumps as they form. Cook, whisking constantly until mixture thickens and begins to bubble around the edges, 2 to 5 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until completely melted. Add salt and pepper to taste, remembering that the pasta will cut the level of spice once added. If you like nutmeg and cayenne (I do!), start with a sprinkle, taste, and work your way up. A little of both goes a long way!
  6. Once pasta is cooked, drain and stir in cheese sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • When using pasta other than macaroni, measure by weight for accuracy as volume varies with shapes.
  • Feel free to mix different melty cheeses; Pecorino Romano is a recommended addition when available.
  • Doubling the recipe does not change ingredients but will increase sauce thickening time slightly.

Nutrition Information

Calories 641kcal (32%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1 Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 641

% Daily Value*

Calories 641kcal 32%

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