Name: One Pot Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 3 bowls
Cuisine: American

These Carbs Don't Count Verified

May 13, 2025

10 Ingredients

MEDIUM

This One Pot Mac & Cheese is the ultimate in creamy, cheesy comfort food—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Dry pasta is simmered in milk and water, creating a built-in starchy base that binds beautifully with cheddar, mozzarella, and cream. A second layer of cheese and seasoning takes the richness over the top, resulting in a smooth, ultra-luxurious mac. It’s easy, mess-free, and irresistibly satisfying.

From the Cook

1/4

One Pot Mac & Cheese

These Carbs Don't Count Verified

Ingredients

bowls

WarningMilk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

In a large saucepan or skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add milk, water, and dry pasta. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Simmer for 10–12 minutes or until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

Lower the heat. Add cheddar, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and heavy cream. Stir until fully melted and creamy.

Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Stir in the remaining mozzarella.

If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to loosen.

Serve immediately, optionally topped with more cheese.

Bite Tutorial

Smart Nutrition

My Calorie Intake

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Cheese Melting Magic 🧀
Remove the pot from heat when adding cheese to prevent breaking or becoming grainy, and stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
Liquid Ratio Precision 💧
Use a 1:1 ratio of water to milk to create the perfect creamy texture without making the mac and cheese too runny or too thick.
Pasta Stirring Technique 🥄
Stir frequently during the initial cooking process to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking and sauce distribution.
Cheese Blend Complexity 🌟
Combine different cheese textures and flavors - use mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for sharp flavor to create a more nuanced mac and cheese.
Final Moisture Control 💨
Let the mac and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and absorb into the pasta for the perfect creamy consistency.

Intelligent Tags

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About the Cook

These Carbs Don't Count

Hi! I’m Angela and if you’re reading this you probably love carbs & pasta and you’ve come to the right place. I’m so excited to share delicious recipes, cooking tips, gluten free life & restaurant recs! Welcome carbies and subscribe for more content! Link above :)