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Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese

A comforting and creamy mac and cheese dish made in one pot, perfect for family gatherings and cozy evenings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth check for halal compliance
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Dairy and Cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of cheeses for complex flavor
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
  • ΒΌ cup breadcrumbs optional for topping

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, combine the elbow macaroni and use water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Adding Flavorings
  1. Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add in the butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the butter is melted and the pasta is well-coated.
Incorporating Dairy
  1. Pour in the milk and cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens. This creamy blend should envelop every piece of pasta with a velvety coat.
Topping and Serving
  1. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch. You can also broil it briefly in the oven for a golden finish.
  2. Once everything is combined well, serve immediately in bowls. You can garnish with more cheese or fresh herbs as you like!

Notes

To ensure perfect results, mix different cheeses for a unique flavor, avoid overcooking the pasta, and adjust milk for desired creamy texture. Leftovers can be stored for 3-4 days in the fridge and frozen for a month.