Ah, mac and cheese—the ultimate comfort food that brings a smile to my face every time I think about it! There’s just something magical about that creamy, cheesy goodness that warms the heart and soul. And let me tell you, this Mac & Cheese Skillet takes it to a whole new level! It’s a one-pot wonder that’s not only easy to whip up but also means less time cleaning up afterward. You get all the flavors and textures you crave without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for cozy nights in!
Ingredients List
Getting the ingredients ready for my Mac & Cheese Skillet is super simple and oh-so-satisfying! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni: Those classic little pasta shapes that soak up all the cheesy goodness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Use a sharp cheddar for a tangy flavor, or go for a mild one if you prefer a creamier taste.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk works best for that rich creaminess, but any milk will do.
- 2 tbsp butter: Salted or unsalted, it’ll melt beautifully into the mix.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A sprinkle of garlicky goodness to enhance the flavor.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: It adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, because seasoning is key!
Having all these ingredients on hand makes whipping up this dish a breeze!
How to Prepare Mac & Cheese Skillet
Making this Mac & Cheese Skillet is a delightful process, and I promise it’ll be worth every cheesy bite! Let’s break it down step by step so you can get that creamy goodness on your plate in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the 8 oz elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want that perfect bite! After cooking, drain the macaroni in a colander, but don’t rinse it—let that starchy goodness stick around!
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Now, grab your trusty skillet! Over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp of butter. It should take just about a minute or two—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown. This step is crucial for that lovely buttery flavor that’ll make your dish sing!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the butter is melted, toss in your cooked macaroni. Give it a good stir to coat it in that buttery goodness. Next, pour in 1 cup of milk and mix it all together. Then, add in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine everything—this is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Now, keep cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and everything is creamy and combined, which should take about 3-4 minutes. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency. Trust me, this is when you’ll want to dive in, but let it cool for just a moment before serving hot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
- Rich, creamy, and cheesy flavor that’s utterly satisfying.
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins like bacon or veggies.
- Perfect for cozy nights or when you need a comforting meal.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Mac & Cheese Skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are a few of my favorite tips! First, be sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente; it’ll continue to soften when mixed with the cheese. If you want extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of cream in addition to the milk. And don’t be shy with seasoning—taste as you go to get it just right. Lastly, serve it immediately for that melty, gooey goodness that everyone loves!
Variations
One of the best things about my Mac & Cheese Skillet is how easily it can be customized! If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in different types of cheese like mozzarella for extra stretchiness or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also add in cooked bacon, sautéed veggies like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious boost, or even some diced tomatoes for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless—so get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your Mac & Cheese Skillet, simply transfer any uneaten portions into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just scoop out what you need and reheat it. You can use the microwave or a skillet over low heat. If it looks a little thick after being in the fridge, stir in a splash of milk as you reheat to get that creamy texture back. It’s just as comforting the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of my Mac & Cheese Skillet, which is about 1 cup: approximately 400 calories, 20g of fat (including 10g saturated fat), 15g of protein, and 42g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 3g of sugar and 600mg of sodium in there. Keep in mind, these are just estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. But hey, it’s comfort food, so let’s enjoy it!
FAQ Section
Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! Just substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’ll still get that delicious mac and cheese vibe.
What if I don’t have cheddar cheese? No worries! You can use any cheese you love—Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a mix for a unique flavor profile.
Can I make this ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to eat. Just add a bit of milk when reheating to keep it creamy!
How do I make it extra creamy? To boost creaminess, mix in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream along with the cheddar. Trust me, it takes it to the next level!
What add-ins work well? Try adding cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even spinach for a pop of color and flavor. Get creative!
For more delicious recipes, check out this cheesy taco pasta recipe or this creamy broccoli cheese soup for a comforting meal!
Print
Mac & Cheese Skillet: 5 Comforting Ways to Indulge Tonight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy one-pot mac and cheese dish cooked in a skillet.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet.
- Pour in the milk and stir.
- Add the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Cook until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or vegetables.
- You can use different types of cheese for variety.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Mac & Cheese Skillet, easy mac and cheese, one-pot mac and cheese