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One Pot Mac and Cheese

One Pot Mac and Cheese
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A creamy, cheesy One Pot Mac and Cheese recipe that comes together effortlessly in minutes, perfect for quick comforting family meals. This classic comfort food combines rich flavors and smooth textures in a single pot, offering simplicity without sacrificing that satisfying homemade touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • Water to cover pasta
  • Pinch of salt

Sauce Base

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk as substitute)

Cheese

  • 2 cups shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, add the elbow macaroni with enough water to cover the pasta and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil and cook until slightly al dente, about 5-6 minutes, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
  2. Make the Roux: Drain most of the water, leaving a little in the pot. Melt the butter over medium heat, then sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly until the mixture turns golden and bubbly, forming the roux base.
  3. Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in the milk to avoid lumps, cooking until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in salt, pepper, and garlic powder for balanced seasoning.
  4. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until melted and perfectly smooth.
  5. Combine and Serve: Mix the macaroni back into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated with velvety cheesy goodness. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese to ensure smooth melting and best texture.
  • Stir constantly to prevent lumps and maintain silky smooth sauce.
  • Do not overcook pasta; slightly undercook as it finishes cooking in the sauce.
  • Warm the milk before adding to help cheese melt faster and create creamier sauce.
  • Add a splash more milk if sauce thickens too much while resting to adjust consistency.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/one-pot-mac-and-cheese/