Description
This creamy one pot mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food made easy. With rich cheddar and melty mozzarella in a silky smooth sauce, it’s ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunch ideas, or when you need an easy dinner the whole family loves. This easy recipe keeps cleanup minimal and flavor high—great for food ideas that satisfy both kids and adults. Whether you’re craving healthy snack alternatives or classic comfort dishes, this stovetop mac and cheese brings joy in every cheesy bite.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
Instructions
1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and a pinch of salt. Cook for 8–9 minutes until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir constantly for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and ground mustard. Simmer another minute.
5. Lower heat and add shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until cheese is fully melted.
6. Return cooked macaroni to the pot. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated. Let sit for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
This recipe works best with freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Don’t overcook the pasta or it may become mushy after mixing with the sauce.
You can add extras like bacon, spinach, or even jalapeños for a flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, one pot recipe, creamy pasta, comfort food, easy dinner