Onepan Stovetop Mac Cheese the Nodrain Trick
Mac N Cheese, Sorted!
Ever crave something proper comforting? I do! Like, right now. What about some seriously delicious Easy Mac N Cheese ? Forget the faff.
One Clever Trick Makes This the easiest Stovetop Mac And Cheese you’ll ever whip up.
One-Pan Wonder: No-Drain Magic!
This recipe is all about simplifying making mac and cheese . It's inspired by proper American comfort food. It's all about cooking the pasta right in the milk! The Mac N Cheese Recipe is super creamy and cheesy.
Ready in minutes and cooked in one pot mac and cheese !
Origin and Ease
This comes from wanting Best Mac And Cheese but without all the hassle. It's proper easy! Prep takes like 5 minutes.
Cooking time is around 20. You'll have enough for 4 greedy people. Perfect for a quick weeknight mac and cheese .
Why This Mac N Cheese Rocks
This is a great source of calcium from the cheese. It's amazing for that Friday night treat or anytime you need a hug in a bowl.
What makes this so special? It's a no drain mac and cheese . Less washing up! Trust me, that’s always a win! The result is a creamy mac and cheese recipe every time.
Ready for the good stuff? Let’s talk ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Easiest Mac N Cheese Ever!
Okay, let's talk ingredients! This Stovetop Mac And Cheese is all about simplicity. Honestly, it's so easy. One Clever Trick Makes This the best mac and cheese recipe you’ll ever try, trust me.
I used to mess making mac and cheese all the time before finding this hack.
Main Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni pasta. Any short pasta works, really!
- 4 cups (950ml) whole milk. The creamier the better.
- 1 cup (240ml) water.
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter.
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt.
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper.
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) garlic powder.
- 2 cups (approx. 225g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Buy a block. It melts better.
- 1 cup (approx. 112g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Or Colby Jack.
Seasoning Notes: Time To Get Saucy!
I love adding a pinch of nutmeg! Try it in your Easy Mac N Cheese . It adds a warm, cozy flavour.
Don't be afraid to experiment! A dash of mustard powder is also nice. For a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper.
If you want a smoky flavour you can try smoked paprika.
If you're out of garlic powder, onion powder works too. Honestly, it's pretty forgiving. A little goes a long way though. You can always add more, but not less.
Equipment Needed for One pot mac and cheese
Just the basics here!
- Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Wooden spoon or heat resistant spatula. For stirring!
- Cheese grater (if not using pre-shredded cheese). Please do it yourself though!
No fancy stuff required! You can even use a pot if you don’t have a skillet. This is a really quick mac and cheese dinner , it could literally be ready by the time your favorite show starts! Perfect for a weeknight mac and cheese , if you ask me!
Alright, gather 'round, you lovely lot! Today, we're diving headfirst into the wonderful world of Mac N Cheese . And trust me, this isn't just any mac n cheese recipe .
Forget the faff, forget the multiple pots. We're doing it the easy way. Like, really easy. One Clever Trick Makes This the best one pot mac and cheese you'll ever make.
Honestly, I can’t believe I’ve been doing it any other way all these years.
No-Fuss Mac: Prep Like a Pro
First things first, the mise en place , as the fancy chefs say. Basically, get your stuff ready. No one wants to be grating cheese when the milk is boiling over.
That's just a recipe for disaster, and a very messy stovetop.
- Essential mise en place: Measure out 1 pound of elbow macaroni pasta, 4 cups of whole milk , 1 cup of water , 4 tablespoons of butter , 1 teaspoon of salt , ½ teaspoon of pepper , ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder , 2 cups of shredded cheddar , and 1 cup of Monterey Jack .
- Time saving organization tips: Get that cheese shredded before you even think about turning on the hob. If you are using pre-shredded, that saves even more time!
- Safety reminders: Okay, so it's mac and cheese , not rocket science. But still, don't go leaving the hob unattended, yeah?
Stovetop Mac And Cheese : The Super Simple Steps
This is where the magic happens, my friends. Get ready for the quick mac and cheese dinner of your dreams. Seriously, it’s perfect for those weeknight mac and cheese cravings.
- Combine ingredients: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, bung in the macaroni, milk, water, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bring to a boil: Whack it over medium high heat. Give it a stir now and again to stop anything sticking to the bottom.
- Simmer: Once it’s bubbling, turn the heat right down. Simmer uncovered, stirring often. Keep going till the pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid is gone. This should take around 15- 20 mins . The pasta should be cooked, but not mushy.
- Add Cheese: Take the skillet off the heat. Tip in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir it all about until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is super smooth. If it’s looking too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
- Serve: Serve immediately. Garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of parsley.
Making Mac And Cheese Like a Boss: Pro Tips
Fancy taking your easy mac n cheese to the next level? Of course, you do! Here are a couple of little tweaks that make all the difference.
And this no drain mac and cheese is a total game changer.
- Expert technique: For a richer flavour, try using a mix of cheeses. Gruyere or even a bit of mature cheddar adds a lovely depth.
- Common mistake: Overcooking the pasta. Soggy pasta is the enemy of creamy mac and cheese recipe . Keep an eye on it, and don’t be afraid to take it off the heat a bit early.
- make-ahead option: You can prep the cheese sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and add it to the cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. Honestly, this is the Best Mac And Cheese ever!
Right, let's add some juicy details, shall we? Making the Best Mac and Cheese ever is about the little things. Trust me!
Recipe Notes: Making Mac And Cheese Like a Pro
Seriously, this One Clever Trick Makes This Easy Mac N Cheese a game changer. It’s all about convenience, isn't it?
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Mac!
Okay, so you've got your Creamy Mac N Cheese Recipe . Now what? Don't just chuck it in a bowl! Think presentation.
A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds a touch of sophistication. You know? I even like to toast some breadcrumbs with garlic butter for a bit of crunch.
Plating ideas, you ask? Individual ramekins look fancy. For sides, a simple green salad cuts through the richness. A crisp glass of white wine? Don't mind if I do! It is the Best Mac and Cheese , after all.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
Leftover One pot mac and cheese is a glorious thing. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating? I find a splash of milk keeps it creamy. Microwave works in a pinch but gently is the key.
If you're thinking long term, freezing isn't ideal, as the texture can change, but if you must, add a bit of extra milk upon reheating.
Variations: Spice It Up!
Fancy a bit of a twist? Try adding some chopped jalapeños for a kick. Or, for a more grown-up flavour, stir in some sautéed mushrooms and truffle oil at the end.
Dietary adaptations? Use gluten-free pasta and a plant based milk alternative for a dairy-free version. Seasonal swaps? Add roasted butternut squash in the autumn for a touch of sweetness.
My grandma always said, "A little experimentation never hurt anyone!" and she was always making Stovetop Mac and Cheese .
Nutrition Basics: Food for the Soul (and Body)
Okay, so let's be honest, this isn't exactly health food. But it's comfort food! A serving clocks in around 650-750 calories.
It’s got a good dose of protein (30-35g) from the cheese. Carbohydrates? 60-70g, thanks to the pasta. Fiber is around 3-4g, so maybe pair it with that salad.
Key health benefits? Well, it boosts happiness levels! Let's be real, a Quick Mac N Cheese Dinner after a long day is good for the soul.
We all deserve some love sometimes on those Weeknight mac and cheese .
Honestly, this No drain mac and cheese recipe is so simple, anyone can nail it. So, get in the kitchen and have a go! You might surprise yourself.
Don't forget to come back and tell me how it went! Making Mac N Cheese Recipe is fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really make mac and cheese without draining the pasta? Is that safe?
Absolutely! That's the "One Clever Trick Makes This" recipe so easy! Cooking the pasta directly in the milk and water allows it to absorb the liquid and create a creamy sauce naturally.
Just make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking and use the correct ratio of liquid to pasta as listed in the recipe, and you'll be golden!
What if my "One Clever Trick Makes This" mac and cheese is too thick or too thin?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! If it's too thick, simply stir in a splash of extra milk (or even cream if you're feeling decadent) until it reaches your desired consistency.
If it's too thin, continue to simmer it over low heat, stirring frequently, until some of the excess liquid evaporates and the sauce thickens up. Think of it like Goldilocks, you want it just right!
Can I use different cheeses in this stovetop mac and cheese recipe? I'm not a big fan of cheddar.
Definitely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices, feel free to experiment. Gruyere, Havarti, or even a smoked Gouda can add a lovely depth of flavour. Just aim for cheeses that melt well and provide a good balance of flavour and texture. After all, a bit of cheese exploration is all part of the fun!
How do I store leftover mac and cheese and how long will it last?
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up, as it tends to thicken up as it cools. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Is this mac and cheese recipe healthy?
Mac and cheese is definitely a comfort food indulgence rather than a health food! However, you can make some adjustments to boost its nutritional value. Consider using whole wheat pasta, adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach, and using reduced fat cheese.
Just remember that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Can I add any protein to this "One Clever Trick Makes This" mac and cheese to make it a more complete meal?
Absolutely! Adding protein is a great idea. Cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, or even diced ham would be delicious additions. For a vegetarian option, try adding some cooked chickpeas or black beans. Stir the protein in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.
Onepan Stovetop Mac Cheese The Nodrain Trick
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 650-750 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35-40g |
| Fiber | 3-4g |
