One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop

Name: One Pot Mac and Cheese - Stovetop
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 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

Enjoy a creamy and delicious mac and cheese made in just one pot on the stovetop, perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:35:54.196Z

This One Pot Mac and Cheese is a family favorite that combines simplicity with rich flavor. Perfect for busy evenings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Quick and easy cleanup with just one pot.
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like bacon or veggies.

      

Quick and Easy Meal Solution

One Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate meal solution for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a comforting dish that the whole family will love. There's no need to dirty multiple pots and pans, making this recipe not only quick but also a breeze to clean up afterward.

Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, this mac and cheese is sure to satisfy. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor appeal to all ages, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table. Plus, it's ready in under 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this One Pot Mac and Cheese recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want to add some protein? Consider stirring in cooked bacon, chicken, or even tofu. For a healthier twist, incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas to boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese as well. While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can mix in mozzarella for a stretchier texture or experiment with gouda or pepper jack for a bit of a kick. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! One Pot Mac and Cheese stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last up to three days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or next-day lunches.

When reheating, you may want to add a splash of milk to restore its creaminess. Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy creamy, cheesy goodness even on your busiest days!

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

Feel free to adjust the cheese type or add your favorite spices!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until combined and heated through.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Serve hot!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your One Pot Mac and Cheese alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. The crispness of the vegetables complements the richness of the pasta perfectly, creating a satisfying contrast. Additionally, consider offering a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to round out the meal and soak up any leftover cheese sauce.

For a fun twist, serve it in individual bowls and top with crispy breadcrumbs or additional cheese before broiling for a few minutes. This creates a golden crust that adds texture and visual appeal to your dish, making it feel gourmet without any extra effort.

Storage Tips

To maximize freshness, store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

When reheating, remember that mac and cheese can dry out. Adding a little milk or cream while warming will help restore its creamy texture. Stir occasionally during reheating to ensure even warming and prevent sticking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta option for a gluten-free version.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.