One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop

Name: One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 4 cups water; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop is a quick and creamy dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:20:54.190Z

This One Pot Mac and Cheese is not just a comfort food; it's a nostalgia-filled journey back to childhood. Made in one pot, it’s quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it a favorite for busy families.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfect for both kids and adults alike

      

A Quick Weeknight Dinner

When time is of the essence, One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop comes to the rescue. This dish is designed to be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. With just one pot to clean, you can enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup. It’s a dish that promises to satisfy your hunger without consuming your evening.

Whether you're rushing home from work, managing kids' activities, or simply want a tasty meal in a flash, this stovetop mac and cheese offers the perfect solution. The creamy, cheesy texture is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a favorite in many households. Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this One Pot Mac and Cheese recipe is its versatility. While the classic combination of cheddar cheese and elbow macaroni is delicious on its own, you can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences. Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Feel free to experiment with spices as well. A dash of paprika or a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the flavor profile, giving it a kick that both adults and adventurous kids will love. This adaptability makes it a fantastic base recipe that can evolve with each preparation.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to meal prep for the week, One Pot Mac and Cheese is an excellent choice. It stores well in the refrigerator, and when reheated, retains its creamy texture, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners. Simply portion out your servings and store them in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

This dish not only simplifies your cooking routine but also ensures that you have a comfort food option ready at your fingertips. Just reheat and enjoy, saving you time and effort on those particularly busy days.

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pot Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
4 cups water
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 8 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta back into the pot along with the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Stir and Serve

Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Enjoy your creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese with your favorite toppings!

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

To achieve the creamiest texture, ensure you use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese. Fresh cheese melts better and incorporates smoothly into the pasta. Additionally, if you like a creamier consistency, consider adding a little more milk or cheese according to your taste.

Another helpful tip is to stir the mixture continuously while the cheese melts. This prevents it from clumping and ensures an even distribution of cheese throughout the pasta, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.

Serving Suggestions

One Pot Mac and Cheese can be served as a standalone meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with various sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the richness of the mac and cheese. Alternatively, garlic bread or steamed vegetables can add a delightful contrast to the meal.

For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of buffalo chicken or BBQ pulled pork for a heartier feast. The creamy mac and cheese will balance the spiciness of buffalo sauce or the sweetness of BBQ, creating a delicious combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used for this recipe.

→ How can I make it creamier?

Add a little more milk or cream to achieve a creamier texture.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! It's a kid-friendly dish that most children love.