One-Pot Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

 

All the cheesy, creamy goodness of classic mac and cheese, made in just one pot! No separate pasta cooking required, and you won't need a drop of cream to get that ultra-rich, velvety sauce. Perfect for busy nights when you want maximum comfort with minimal clean-up.

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (full or low-fat)
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 lb (250g) dried macaroni (elbow pasta)
• 2 cups (150g/5oz) grated sharp cheddar or tasty cheese
• 1 cup (75g/2.5oz) grated provolone dolce (or mozzarella)

Topping

• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Melt the butter in a deep, oven-safe skillet or pan over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and stir until a thick paste (roux) forms. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add half of the milk, whisking until the roux dissolves. Then add the remaining milk, continuing to whisk until smooth.
5. Add water, salt, and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and stir occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add macaroni to the sauce, stirring to coat. Cook for 1 minute, then cover with a lid or foil.
7. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 12 minutes. The macaroni should be al dente and the sauce still saucy.
8. Remove from the oven and stir in the grated cheddar and provolone until melted and evenly combined.
9. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and parmesan over the top, then place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Recipe Notes

1. Adjust the salt based on the cheese you use; sharper cheeses may need less.
2. Cooking time may vary slightly with different pasta shapes, but use ones that cook in 9-10 minutes for best results.
3. Serve immediately for the creamiest texture; the sauce will thicken as it cools.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 47.2g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 22.4g
• Sodium: 842mg
• Calcium: 490mg

Enjoy this rich, cheesy mac and cheese with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor! Perfect for family dinners or whenever you need a comforting, homemade classic.