One Pot Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese
Tired of dirtying every dish when making mac and cheese from scratch? This recipe is the solution! While technically not one-pot if you add breadcrumbs and broil, the result is worth it.
Tired of dirtying every dish when making mac and cheese from scratch? This recipe is the solution! While technically not one-pot if you add breadcrumbs and broil, the result is worth it.
- dash pepper
- 1 tsp. salt
- dash nutmeg
- 1 tbsp. butter
- 2 c. large elbow macaroni uncooked (about 1/2 lb.)
- 2 c. low fat milk (may require additional 1/4 c. for final cooking)
- 1/2 tsp. mustard powder
- 1 c. grated cheddar (or swiss, mozzarella, jack...)
- 2 c. soft bread crumbs optional
- 1/4 c. melted butter optional
- Carbohydrate 15.207691875 g
- Cholesterol 273.2575 mg
- Fat 102.302193125 g
- Fiber 0.921800025701523 g
- Protein 10.28499 g
- Saturated Fat 64.38802775 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (283g)
- Sodium 1019.074 mg
- Sugar 14.2858918492985 g
- Trans Fat 7.07894649999999 g
- Calories 1004 calories
Step-by-step
- Place raw elbow macaroni in colander and quickly rinse under water. Let drain.
- In medium saucepan, add milk, macaroni, salt, butter, mustard and nutmeg.
- Slowly bring mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently (do not leave unattended or it will stick).
- Once simmering, turn heat to low and allow macaroni to cook in the milk slowly. Continue to stir frequently so macaroni cooks evenly.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until milk is fully absorbed. If macaroni is still not entirely cooked, add more milk in small amounts until it is cooked.
- When milk has evaporated, stir in grated cheese evenly.
- If desired, combine soft bread crumbs with melted butter, place macaroni in a casserole dish, and top macaroni with bread crumbs.
- Broil until bread crumbs are golden brown.
- Serves 3-4 people.
One Pot Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese: A Busy Woman's Dream
Let's be honest, ladies, life is busy. Between work, family, social commitments, and trying to squeeze in a little "me time," the last thing we need is a complicated recipe that leaves our kitchen looking like a bomb went off. That's why I'm absolutely obsessed with this One Pot Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food, delivering creamy, cheesy goodness without the mountain of dishes. Think of it as a little act of self-care disguised as dinner – because we deserve that, right? This recipe isn't just quick and easy; it's flexible too. Want to use different cheeses? Go for it! Feeling adventurous? Add some roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Forget the elaborate béchamel sauces and precise timing. This macaroni and cheese comes together on the stovetop, in one pot (mostly!), making cleanup a breeze. The creamy texture is achieved by letting the macaroni cook slowly in the milk, absorbing the liquid and creating that perfectly decadent consistency. And the optional breadcrumb topping? It's the cherry on top, adding a delightful crunch that elevates the dish from good to amazing. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this recipe is guaranteed to impress, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your delicious creation.
I’ve found that even simple recipes can become a source of joy and connection. Sharing this macaroni and cheese with my family is one of my favorite things. The warmth of the shared meal and the smiles around the table far outweigh the effort of cooking. It’s those moments of connection that truly nourish the soul. This recipe has become a staple in my home, a comforting hug on a busy weeknight. I hope it brings you the same simple joy it brings me. So, grab your ingredients, put on your favorite music, and get ready for a delicious and stress-free cooking experience. This is more than just a meal; it’s a small act of self-care in a crazy world.
Beyond the Basics: This recipe is a wonderful starting point. Feel free to experiment! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick, or stir in some cooked bacon or ham for added protein and flavor. If you have leftover cooked chicken or vegetables, those would be amazing additions as well. The possibilities are truly endless, and the best part is, it all comes together in one pan! No more mountains of dirty dishes to deal with!
Making it Your Own: This recipe is so versatile; it's easy to tailor it to your own preferences. Are you a fan of sharp cheddar? Go for it! Prefer a milder flavor? Try mozzarella or Gruyere. Maybe you're feeling adventurous and want to try a blend of different cheeses? Experiment and see what delicious combinations you discover. The key is to have fun with it and create a dish you truly love. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs too, to find your perfect flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your macaroni and cheese hot, straight from the stovetop. It's perfect as a standalone dish, or as a side to grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For a truly indulgent meal, try adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top. No matter how you serve it, this macaroni and cheese is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Time-Saving Tips: To save even more time, use pre-shredded cheese. It might not taste quite as good as freshly grated cheese, but it will save you a few minutes of work. Another time-saving tip is to prepare the breadcrumb topping ahead of time. You can make it in the morning and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.
Embrace the Imperfect: Cooking should be fun and enjoyable. Don't stress about getting every step perfect. If the breadcrumbs get a little too brown, that’s okay! If the cheese sauce isn't quite as smooth as you’d hoped, that’s okay too! The most important thing is that you enjoy the process and create a delicious meal that you and your loved ones can savor. So relax, have fun, and enjoy the delicious results of your efforts!
