One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop

Name: One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 4 cups water; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop is a quick and easy recipe that brings comfort food to your table in just minutes.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-20T22:20:54.732Z

This One Pot Mac and Cheese recipe is a childhood classic made easy. With creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Minimal cleanup with just one pot required
Quick to prepare – ready in just 20 minutes
Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting meal

      

A Simple Comfort Food Classic

Mac and cheese is a beloved dish that evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort. This One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop recipe simplifies the traditional method, allowing you to savor this classic without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. In just 20 minutes, you can create a creamy, cheesy delight that will please both kids and adults alike. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to warm you up and satisfy your cravings.

The beauty of this one-pot version lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors by adding your favorite ingredients. Consider mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for a kick. The possibilities are endless, making this dish perfect for experimenting or using up leftovers.

Quick and Convenient Cooking

When time is of the essence, this recipe shines. With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the burden of a sink full of dishes. The stovetop method ensures that you can whip up this mac and cheese in no time, making it ideal for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal in a hurry.

Moreover, the stovetop cooking method allows for better control over the texture of your pasta and cheese sauce. You can achieve that perfect creaminess by adjusting the heat and stirring continuously. This ensures that every bite is rich and flavorful, elevating your mac and cheese experience.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

While this One Pot Mac and Cheese is delightful on its own, it also pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or some steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. The freshness of the vegetables complements the richness of the cheese, creating a satisfying dining experience.

Additionally, if you're looking to make this dish even more filling, you could serve it as a side to grilled chicken or meatloaf. The creamy mac and cheese acts as the perfect comfort food counterpart to protein-rich main dishes, making your meal complete and hearty.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
4 cups water
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.

Add Ingredients

Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Stir in Cheese

Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the mixture is creamy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese!

Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like cooked bacon or vegetables!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, try adding a bit more milk or cheese to your liking.

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

To ensure your mac and cheese is as creamy as possible, choose a high-quality sharp cheddar cheese. The sharper the cheese, the more flavor it will impart to your dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste preferences.

Another tip is to reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added back into your cheese mixture if it becomes too thick, allowing you to achieve your desired creamy consistency without compromising flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to revive the creaminess, as pasta tends to absorb moisture over time. This will help restore its original texture and flavor, ensuring that each bite is just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

For those who prefer to freeze their leftovers, mac and cheese can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk as needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to help loosen it up.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or jalapeños for a spicy kick!