Description
If you’re looking for warmth on a chilly day or simply want to treat yourself to a comforting meal, One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese is the answer. This recipe offers the rich flavors of cheese and cream, all cooked together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for both a quiet family dinner and a gathering with friends. The best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni or pasta of your choice
- 3 cups water (see notes)
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1.5 tbsp paprika (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1.5 tsp sugar
Instructions
- Begin by grating the cheese and gathering all your ingredients.
- In a pot, add the dried macaroni and pour in the water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions or until it reaches al dente. Lower the heat once more, leaving a little water in the pot.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream, cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard, and sugar. Mix until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined. Adjust to taste. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and better flavor. Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be firm since it will continue to cook once the other ingredients are added. Customize your mac and cheese by adding cooked bacon, broccoli, or herbs for an extra twist. Ensure to keep some water in the pot, as it helps achieve a creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg