Description
Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made simple. This easy stovetop mac and cheese is rich, velvety, and made in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, kid-friendly dinners, and cheesy cravings. Quick homemade mac and cheese that’s better than boxed!
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 cups whole milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 ounces cream cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Instructions
1. Pour elbow macaroni into a large pot with the milk and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the milk is absorbed.
2. Lower the heat and stir in butter and cream cheese until completely melted and creamy.
3. Gradually add cheddar cheese in batches, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce is silky.
4. Season with black pepper and mustard powder if using. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
This recipe works best with freshly shredded cheese for optimal melting.
You can add veggies or protein like bacon or chicken to make it a full meal.
Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, but 2% can work in a pinch.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg