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: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups water; 1 cup milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This creamy and delicious stovetop mac and cheese is made in one pot, making it the perfect quick meal for busy weeknights.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2025-12-23T05:51:35.529Z

This One Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy dish that will please both kids and adults alike. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick and easy preparation in just one pot
Customizable with your favorite add-ins or toppings

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that brings joy to people of all ages. This one-pot version is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and creamy texture. Whether you're coming home from a long day or looking for a dish that pleases the whole family, this stovetop mac and cheese will satisfy your cravings.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time. The creamy cheese sauce coats each piece of macaroni, creating a delightful dish that feels both indulgent and homey.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about this stovetop mac and cheese is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Add in some cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, or throw in some steamed broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition. The choice is yours!

If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing different types of cheeses. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella can add a delightful stretchiness, while pepper jack can give it a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that every batch can be uniquely yours.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This one-pot mac and cheese is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prepping. Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and you'll have a comforting meal ready in minutes.

Consider portioning out servings into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals. This way, you can enjoy the creamy goodness of mac and cheese anytime you want without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Gather all ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.

Add Milk and Cheese

Reduce heat to medium-low. Drain any excess water and add the milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until combined.

Melt the Cheese

Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until melted and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious One Pot Mac and Cheese!

Feel free to customize with toppings like breadcrumbs, bacon bits, or extra cheese!

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

For the creamiest mac and cheese, use a combination of freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce. Additionally, adjust the amount of milk based on your desired creaminess; a little extra milk can help achieve the perfect consistency.

Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning! Every cheese has a different saltiness level, so it's essential to check the flavor before serving. A dash of extra salt or pepper could elevate the dish to the next level.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your one-pot mac and cheese with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. The crusty, buttery bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta. For a refreshing touch, consider a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the mac and cheese.

If you're entertaining guests or looking to impress, top your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs and bake it for a few minutes until golden brown. This adds a delightful crunch and elevates the dish from simple to gourmet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese of your choice.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for 2-3 days.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.