Description
One-Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or quick family dinners. This creamy, cheesy delight combines sharp cheddar with tender elbow macaroni for a satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes. With minimal cleanup and endless customization options, it’s a dish that guarantees smiles and warmth on any rainy day.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in milk while stirring continuously.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until slightly simmering.
- Mix in shredded cheddar and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well-coated. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top and broil for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg