One Pot Mac and Cheese

Name: One Pot Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups whole milk; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: November 3, 2025

by samuel cullingham

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious One Pot Mac and Cheese:

Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese; it holds onto that luscious sauce perfectly.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for an intense flavor that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can swap in low-fat if you’re feeling wild.
Butter: A must-have for richness; unsalted is ideal so you can control the saltiness.
Garlic Powder: Adds depth without the peeling and chopping—win-win!

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep the flavors balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those cheesy flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious One Pot Mac and Cheese:

Step 1: Gather Your Gear

Start by grabbing a large pot or Dutch oven—your trusty sidekick in this cheesy adventure.

Step 2: Boil Those Noodles

Pour in enough water to cover about an inch above your elbow macaroni. Bring it to a rolling boil before tossing in a pinch of salt along with the macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 3: Drain & Return

Once your macaroni reaches perfection (a.k.a al dente), drain it but don’t rinse! Return it to the pot—you want that starchy goodness hanging around.

Step 4: Create Cheesy Magic

Add butter, milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the pot with the macaroni. Stir everything together over medium heat until it starts bubbling gently.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Gradually sprinkle in your cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until it melts into a creamy dream—this is where things get exciting!

Step 6: Serve & Savor

Once everything’s combined and ooey-gooey deliciousness has been achieved, serve immediately. Maybe sprinkle some extra cheese on top because why not?

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every cheesy bite as you reminisce about those carefree childhood days!

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Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by sautéing your aromatics, then add in the pasta and broth simultaneously. Let everything simmer together; this ensures the pasta absorbs all those rich flavors while cooking perfectly. Finally, stir in your cheese until it melts into creamy perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your One Pot Mac and Cheese! Swap out cheddar for gouda or add some sautéed veggies like spinach or broccoli. You can also sprinkle in spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to enhance the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

To store your One Pot Mac and Cheese, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For reheating, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive its creaminess.

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I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t believe it was homemade! They devoured it so quickly that I barely got a second helping before they started debating who would take leftovers home!

FAQs

What is One Pot Mac and Cheese?

One Pot Mac and Cheese is a creamy, indulgent pasta dish made in a single pot. This recipe simplifies the cooking process by combining pasta, cheese, and other ingredients all in one vessel. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the flavors of the cheese and seasonings, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish can be customized with various cheeses or add-ins like vegetables or proteins.

How long does it take to make One Pot Mac and Cheese?

Preparing One Pot Mac and Cheese is quick and easy. Typically, it takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your stove heat and the type of pasta used. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; you can have a delicious home-cooked meal ready in no time without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I customize my One Pot Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely! Customizing your One Pot Mac and Cheese is part of the fun. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda, to achieve unique flavors. Additionally, consider adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even spices for an extra kick. This flexibility allows you to create a version that suits your taste preferences perfectly.

Is One Pot Mac and Cheese suitable for leftovers?

Yes! One Pot Mac and Cheese makes excellent leftovers. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, simply add a splash of milk or cream to restore some creaminess before warming it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

One Pot Mac and Cheese is a delightful meal option that combines simplicity with comfort food bliss. With its quick preparation time and endless customization possibilities, it’s perfect for families or anyone looking for an easy weeknight dinner. Remember to experiment with different cheeses and ingredients to tailor this recipe to your liking. Enjoying a creamy bowl of One Pot Mac and Cheese has never been easier!