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Thomas Baker

Ultra Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese: Best Recipe Ever

This Ultra Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that's smooth, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a Dump And Go Mac And Cheese meal, this Big Recipes favorite combines creamy textures and rich flavors for a delicious dinner everyone will love. A true winner for any Mac And Cheese Creamy Recipe lover.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 818

Ingredients
  

  • 1lb / 500g Dried Macaroni
  • 2 1/2 - 3 cups / 600 - 720ml Milk, at room temp, or as needed (I use semi-skimmed)
  • 2 cups / 480ml Chicken Stock (not piping hot)
  • 1 cup / 240ml Heavy/Double Cream, at room temp
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Mustard Powder
  • 1/4 tsp EACH: Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, White Pepper
  • 4oz / 125g Cream Cheese, leave at room temp
  • 2 1/2 cups / 250g Medium Cheddar (see notes)
  • 1 cup / 100g Gruyere, grated
  • 1/2 cup / 50g Mozzarella, shredded

Method
 

  1. Place the dried macaroni into a large, deep pot, then add 2 1/2 cups of milk along with all the chicken stock and cream. Mix in the mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and white pepper to combine.
  2. Set the pot over medium heat and gently simmer, stirring every so often, until the macaroni is tender but still firm to the bite. If the liquid reduces too quickly before the pasta is cooked, pour in a little more milk to ensure it finishes cooking properly.
  3. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, then blend in the cream cheese until it smoothly melts. Add the medium cheddar and grated gruyere, stirring until well combined, followed by the shredded mozzarella. If the cheese seems reluctant to melt or the mixture feels overly thick, loosen the sauce with small splashes of milk at a time.
  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then serve your rich, creamy mac and cheese right away and enjoy!

Notes

  • a) Chicken Stock adds a subtle depth of flavor though water can be used instead.
  • b) Medium cheddar creates a creamier taste than sharp cheddar. Gruyere adds nuttiness while mozzarella offers a lovely cheese pull. Cream cheese enhances the creamy texture.
  • c) Pasta brands vary; add warmed milk to adjust sauce thickness so pasta cooks through without drying out.
  • d) Prevent sauce graininess by using room temperature milk and cream, avoiding boiling, and grating your own cheese instead of pre-shredded.
  • e) Portions are generous and quite rich, with about 818 calories each.