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–+ servings
One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese

One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese for Ultimate Cozy Nights

Experience the warmth and nostalgia of One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese, a crowd-pleasing comfort food ready in just 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Uncooked Macaroni/Pasta Substitute with any preferred pasta variety like penne or fusilli.
  • 4 cups Water Adjust based on your chosen pasta.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Can swap with milk or half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar (freshly grated) Experiment with different hard cheeses like gouda or pepper jack.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella (freshly grated) Try replacing it with provolone or fontina for a unique twist.
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Sea salt or kosher salt works beautifully.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste or omit for a milder experience.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can deliver more intense flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Use fresh if preferred, sauté longer.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Can be omitted or swapped for Dijon.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional but recommended for rounded flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Grate your sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Gather water, heavy whipping cream, and seasonings.
  2. In a large pot, add uncooked macaroni and enough water to cover it by about an inch. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook macaroni for about 7-9 minutes until al dente, allowing most water to evaporate.
  4. Lower the heat to low and stir in heavy whipping cream. Gradually add grated cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until melted.
  5. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard, and sugar to taste. Stir well to combine.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and serve hot, garnishing if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For storage, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.

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