One pot macaroni and cheese recipe is a classic comfort food that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. This dish is a delightful combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, all cooked in a single pot. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family with its simplicity and deliciousness.
Macaroni and cheese is a dish that has been enjoyed for generations, and there are countless variations of this comforting meal. From the classic American version to the gourmet twists found in gourmet restaurants, the essence of this dish remains the same: a rich, creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta. In this article, we will guide you through a simple yet flavorful one pot macaroni and cheese recipe that you can easily make at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni
– 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) all-purpose flour
– 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
– 2 cups (480g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup (240ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until a smooth paste forms, known as a roux.
3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to taste.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Let the one pot macaroni and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
One pot macaroni and cheese recipe is a fantastic way to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings for a classic comfort food. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade macaroni and cheese any day of the week!
