Name: Easy One Pot Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 3 bowls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; 0.5 lb dry pasta; 2 cups milk; 2 cups water or broth; Salt; Black pepper; 0.5 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp onion powder; 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

From the Cook

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Easy One Pot Mac & Cheese

These Carbs Don't Count Verified

Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter.

Add dry pasta and stir to coat in butter.

Pour in milk and water or broth. Stir to combine.

Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until most liquid is absorbed and pasta is tender.

Add cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.

Adjust consistency with more milk or cheese if desired.

Top with additional cheese and black pepper before serving.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Cheese Melting Magic 🧀
Remove the pot from heat before adding cheese to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Liquid Ratio Mastery 💧
Use a 1:1 ratio of milk to water or broth to create the ideal creamy texture without making the mac and cheese too thin or too thick.
Pasta Stirring Technique 🥄
Stir the pasta frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, especially in the corners and bottom of the pot.
Cheese Blend Upgrade 🧈
Mix in a small amount of butter and grated parmesan with the cheddar for a more complex, rich flavor profile that elevates the classic mac and cheese.
Seasoning Layer Technique 🌶️
Add your garlic and onion powders directly to the liquid before adding pasta to allow the spices to bloom and distribute more evenly throughout the dish.