Silky One Pot Mac and Cheese

Rich and silky, this One Pot Mac and Cheese is crafted with a medley of cheeses, whole milk, and elbow pasta. It’s a from-scratch mac and cheese masterpiece that outshines anything you’d whip up from a box. Whether enjoyed solo or as the reliable sidekick to your go-to meals, it’s an simple and tasty dish that’s hard to resist!

overhead image of a bowl of one pot mac and cheese topped with fresh pepper

Mac and Cheese, Please

There’s nothing more nostalgic and comforting than a big warm bowl of from-scratch mac and cheese! One bite, and we’re transported back to our childhood. Growing up we made the stuff out of the box. However, now that we’re older, we knew we could do better. So, we captured all the nostalgia of the mac and cheese from our childhood but also cranked up the flavor with wholesome ingredients and a generous dash of love! This One Pot Mac and Cheese:

Requires minimal dishes for an simple cleanup
Has the absolute creamiest texture and richest taste
Cooks in less than 15 minutes
And is simple to customize with all your go-to add-ins

a large pot of cooked elbow pasta topped with shredded Cheddar and Mozzarella cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t find any powdered cheese here! We’re using nothing but the real stuff for out-of-this-world flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Pasta – We use elbow pasta, but we also love Cavatappi, too. Whatever noodles you like the finest work just fine!
Broth – Either chicken or vegetable broth is used to cook the noodles and infuses them with an incredibly rich taste.
Spices – To enhance the natural flavors of the cheese, we include mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cheese – We include a combination of Cheddar and Monterrey Jack cheeses for just a hint of spice. However, any cheese you like finest would taste great!
Butter – This makes any recipe even more tasty. However, butter also helps thicken the cheese sauce, helping it stick to the noodles. Because we include spices separately, you want to make sure your butter is unsalted.
Heavy Cream & Whole Milk – Our secret to creating the creamiest, most indulgent mac and cheese you’ll ever taste, a combination of heavy cream and whole milk is poured into the pot to take the cheese sauce to the next level.

overhead image of one pot mac and cheese in a large pot being stirred with a spoon

How to Make One Pot Mac and Cheese

Some mac and cheese recipes require multiple dishes to make the noodles and the cheese, creating lots of dishes in the process. So, we simplified things and created this One Pot Mac and Cheese!

Place the pasta, broth, and seasonings in a large pot.
Bring the broth to a boil, and cover.
Reduce the heat to low, and simmer the ingredients for 10-12 minutes.
Add the rest of the ingredients, and stir until the sauce is combined and silky.

* For a slightly crackly top, place the pot under your broiler for a few minutes!

Optional Add-Ins

There’s nothing wrong with serving this simple One Pot Mac and Cheese as it is. But, if you’re in the mood to elevate it into a more elaborate feast, the possibilities are practically limitless. To kickstart your culinary creativity, here are some of our go-to additions:

Ground Beef
Shredded Chicken
Bacon
Broccoli
Peas
Tomatoes
Onions
Mushrooms

one pot mac and cheese with a spoon holding a scoop over the pot

Make-Ahead Options

This recipe makes for the finest leftovers that are so simple to reheat or even freeze. So, feel free to double the batch for an simple meal you can eat all week!

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

Freezer: Place your mac and cheese in a sealable bag or airtight container for up to 6 months!

How to Reheat

First, be sure to thaw your frozen mac and cheese in the fridge overnight. Or, leave it on the counter for a couple of hours. However, we don’t recommend thawing it in the microwave as your noodles will dry out. Then, warm your leftovers in the microwave, on the stovetop, or even in the oven!

Serving Suggestions

We’ve been guilty of savoring a generous bowl of this One Pot Mac and Cheese as a standalone feast. But, it’s not just a solo act – this silky delight also plays exceptionally well with all your go-to main courses as the standout sidekick! Here are a few of our top-notch pairings:

Common Questions about One Pot Mac and Cheese

Can I use any type of pasta for one-pot mac and cheese?

While short pasta like elbow macaroni works finest, you can experiment with other shapes like shells or rotini. Just ensure the pasta cooks fully to al dente in the pot.

How can I make my one-pot mac and cheese extra silky?

Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt, mascarpone, or cream cheese can make your mac and cheese extra silky and indulgent.

How can I make my one-pot mac and cheese spicy?

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a kick. You could also use a spicy cheese like pepper Jack.

How do I prevent my one-pot mac and cheese from sticking to the pot?

Use a non-stick pot or coat the bottom with a little butter or oil before adding the ingredients.

More Simple One Pot Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re on the hunt for more one-pot wonders, we’ve got a lineup of favorites that are downright irresistible:

This One Pot Parmesan Pasta is the easiest and quickest way to get dinner on the table!
A better-for-you Hamburger Helper, this One Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is a family-go-to recipe everyone will love.
One Pot Lasagna has all the traditional flavors you love in the convenience of a one pot recipe.
One bite is all it takes to fall in love with this One Pot Spaghetti Carbonara!

overhead image of a bowl of one pot mac and cheese

the Ayyem kitchenServings: 6 servings

Prep: 2 mins
Cook: 12 mins
Total: 14 mins

This macaroni and cheese is so simple and tastes even better than the box! Reliable for picky eaters! Email

Ingredients

16 ounces uncooked elbow pasta
4 cups chicken broth or broth of choice
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons kosher salt more or less to taste
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper more or less to taste
1/2 cup cheddar cheese grated
1 cup monterey jack cheese grates
4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions

In a large pot, add pasta, broth, and seasonings. Stir. Bring to a boil, and cover. Reduce heat to medium low, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender.16 ounces uncooked elbow pasta, 4 cups chicken broth or broth of choice, 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Add remaning ingredients, and stir until nice and silky. Add a splash of milk for a creamier consistency. Option: Feel free to broil in the oven for a few minutes to crisp the top!1/2 cup cheddar cheese, 1 cup monterey jack cheese, 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup whole milk