Creamy One-Pot Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Category: One Dish Meal
Description: A delightful and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese into an easy, one-pot recipe that is perfect for families and quick weeknight dinners. This version, which has been passed down by a friend, is not only simple to prepare but also customizable, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Serve it with toasted buttered garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. Feel free to explore the suggested variations to suit your personal taste and use up any leftovers you might have on hand.
Aggregated Rating: 4.5
Review Count: 5
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 3 tbsp |
| Elbow Macaroni | 2 cups |
| Onion | 1/4 cup (finely chopped) |
| Green Peppers | 2 (finely chopped) |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Dry Mustard | 1 tsp |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups (shredded) |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1 cup (grated) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 544 |
| Total Fat | 30.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 90.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1028.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 44.1 g |
| Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugars | 1.8 g |
| Protein | 23.2 g |
Instructions
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Melt the Butter: Begin your culinary adventure by melting the butter in a large deep skillet, ideally one that measures about 12 inches wide and 3 inches deep, or in a large pot. This step sets the foundation for a rich, creamy sauce that envelops the macaroni.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the butter is melted and sizzling gently, add the raw elbow macaroni, finely chopped onion, and green peppers to the skillet. Sprinkle in the salt and dry mustard, mixing everything well to ensure the flavors start to meld together.
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Add Liquids: Carefully stir in the water and milk, creating a luscious base that will cook the macaroni and make the dish irresistibly creamy.
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Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a lively boil, allowing the macaroni to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
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Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. It’s important to stir frequently during this time to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the heat.
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Cheese It Up: Remove the skillet from the heat. This is where the magic happens—stir in the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheese until they melt completely, transforming the dish into a gooey, cheesy delight.
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Customize Your Dish: To elevate your stove top macaroni and cheese, consider adding one or more of the following optional ingredients:
- Meat Additions: For those who enjoy a heartier meal, incorporate cooked meats such as chopped chicken, ham, hamburger, or sausages a few minutes before the cooking time is finished. This ensures everything is heated thoroughly.
- Vegetable Boost: To sneak in some extra nutrition, add a drained 14-ounce can of stewed tomatoes (using the liquid as part of the water for cooking) just before bringing the ingredients to a boil. Alternatively, toss in chopped celery, green onions, or any leftover cooked vegetables you may have in your fridge.
- Seasoning Variations: Spice things up by varying the seasonings to your liking. Consider adding chili powder, Italian seasoning, thyme, or freshly ground pepper for an extra kick.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is combined and creamy, serve the macaroni and cheese hot, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese, if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of toasted buttered garlic bread and a crisp green salad, making it a complete meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
This creamy one-pot stove top macaroni and cheese is not only quick to prepare, but it also brings a comforting warmth to any dining table, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or a delightful family gathering. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!
