One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese (Stovetop)

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There’s comfort food… and then there’s mac and cheese.

Few dishes deliver the same level of creamy, cheesy satisfaction in such a short amount of time. This One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese (Stovetop) recipe is everything you love about classic mac and cheese—but simpler, faster, and made entirely in one pot.

No roux.
No draining.
No baking.

Just rich, velvety cheese sauce clinging to tender pasta, ready in about 20 minutes.

If you’re looking for the ultimate quick mac and cheese recipe that tastes homemade and comforting, this is the one.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Mac and Cheese

This creamy stovetop mac and cheese stands out because:

  • Everything cooks in one pot
  • The pasta absorbs flavor as it cooks
  • No complicated techniques required
  • Perfect for busy weeknights
  • Kid-friendly and crowd-approved

Unlike traditional versions that require making a flour-based roux, this no roux mac and cheese relies on milk, butter, and cheese to create a silky sauce directly in the pot.

Less effort. Fewer dishes. Maximum creaminess.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine pasta and liquids.
    In a medium saucepan, add elbow macaroni, milk, water, butter, and salt.
  2. Cook the pasta.
    Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  3. Lower the heat.
    Once the pasta is cooked and the mixture is creamy, reduce heat to the lowest setting.
  4. Add the cheese.
    Stir in shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, allowing it to melt fully before adding more.
  5. Season and adjust.
    Add black pepper and garlic powder if using. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, let it simmer gently for another minute.
  6. Serve immediately.
    Spoon into bowls and enjoy warm for maximum creaminess.

One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese (Stovetop)

Ultra-creamy stovetop mac and cheese made in one pot without a roux, ready in about 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Combine pasta, milk, water, butter, and salt in a saucepan.
  2. Simmer while stirring until pasta is tender and liquid thickens.
  3. Reduce heat and stir in cheese until melted.
  4. Adjust consistency and season before serving.

Notes

Stir frequently and use freshly shredded cheese for best texture.

The Secret to Ultra-Creamy Mac and Cheese

The magic behind this easy homemade mac and cheese lies in how it cooks.

Because the pasta simmers directly in milk and water, it releases starch into the liquid. That starch naturally thickens the sauce. When cheese is added at low heat, it melts smoothly into the creamy base.

The result? A velvety, glossy sauce without flour.

Best Cheese Choices

Sharp cheddar is classic—but you can mix things up:

  • Monterey Jack for extra meltiness
  • Gouda for smoky depth
  • Mozzarella for stretch
  • Parmesan for sharpness

For the smoothest sauce, always use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Variations to Try

This one pot mac and cheese is endlessly adaptable.

Add Protein

  • Crispy bacon
  • Grilled chicken
  • Pulled pork

Add Vegetables

  • Steamed broccoli
  • Peas
  • Spinach
  • Roasted cauliflower

Make It Spicy

  • Add cayenne pepper
  • Stir in hot sauce
  • Sprinkle red pepper flakes

Make It Extra Creamy

  • Stir in cream cheese
  • Add a splash of heavy cream

Serving Suggestions

While this creamy stovetop mac and cheese is delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with:

  • Grilled chicken
  • BBQ ribs
  • Simple green salad
  • Roasted vegetables

It also makes a fantastic side dish for gatherings and potlucks.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerate:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat:
Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing:
Not recommended. Dairy-based sauces may separate when thawed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. High heat after adding cheese – This can cause separation.
  2. Skipping stirring – Prevents sticking and uneven cooking.
  3. Using pre-shredded cheese – May result in grainy texture.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Days

There’s something comforting about knowing dinner can be ready in under 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.

This quick mac and cheese recipe is:

  • Budget-friendly
  • Pantry-staple friendly
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Reliable every time

Whether you’re cooking for kids, hosting friends, or just craving something cozy, this stovetop version delivers consistent results with almost no effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, small shapes like shells or rotini work well.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and monitor cooking time carefully.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger pot and stir frequently.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason mac and cheese has stood the test of time. It’s comforting, satisfying, and simple.

This One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese (Stovetop) strips away unnecessary steps and delivers pure, cheesy comfort in about 20 minutes. No oven. No complicated techniques. Just creamy, dreamy pasta made right on the stove.

And once you try it this way, you may never go back to boxed again.

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