Creamy One-Pot Macaroni & Cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
Method
- Directions
- Combine Pasta and Liquid
- In a large pot or deep skillet, combine pasta, milk, water, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir to separate noodles.
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook uncovered, stirring often, for 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed. (Don’t drain — this is the base of your creamy sauce!)
- Add Butter & Mustard
- Stir in butter and Dijon mustard until melted and smooth.
- Incorporate the Cheese
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, stirring constantly until melted and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. If it’s too thin, simmer a minute longer while stirring.
- Serve Immediately
- Spoon into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Chef’s Tip
For extra flavor, stir in crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or a pinch of smoked paprika.
If you prefer baked mac and cheese, pour the finished pasta into a greased dish, top with buttered breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
For extra flavor, stir in crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or a pinch of smoked paprika.
If you prefer baked mac and cheese, pour the finished pasta into a greased dish, top with buttered breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.