When it comes to ultimate comfort food, few dishes check all the boxes like a rich, creamy bowl of mac and cheese. This Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese brings everything you love about the classic—tender noodles, silky cheese sauce, buttery goodness—but makes it even better by keeping it all in a single pot. That means fewer dishes, faster cleanup, and more time to enjoy the cheesy goodness.

This recipe isn’t just quick and simple, it delivers flavor on every level. The noodles cook directly in the creamy sauce, soaking up all that cheesy richness, while a touch of spice and crunchy golden topping adds a gourmet twist. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids or indulgent adults, this one pot wonder is a weeknight winner.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get this dish just right, a few kitchen tools can make a big difference:

Large Heavy-Bottom Pot or Dutch Oven: This is your MVP. A quality pot ensures even cooking and prevents the cheese from burning at the bottom.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring gently without scratching your cookware.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key when balancing creamy vs. cheesy.

Box Grater: Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded. It’s worth the extra step.
Whisk: Helps achieve that ultra-smooth roux and cheese sauce base.

Having these on hand will ensure your mac and cheese is velvety, balanced, and perfectly gooey from the first bite to the last.

Ingredients for the Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese

Elbow Macaroni: The classic shape for holding creamy sauce in every bite. Its ridges and curves trap flavor perfectly.
Butter: Adds richness and forms the base of the roux that thickens the sauce.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating a smooth roux that thickens the cheese sauce.

Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: This duo delivers the perfect creamy base, balancing richness with a light texture.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For that bold, classic mac flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Offers that stretchy, melty texture we crave.
Cream Cheese: Adds silkiness and a slightly tangy finish.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance flavor.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: A subtle depth of flavor that sets this version apart.
Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional Topping): Toasted and sprinkled on top for a golden crunch.

Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish): Adds color and a hint of freshness.

How To Make the Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Roux

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked pasta to the pot and stir until every noodle is coated in the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 6: Add Crunch (Optional)

In a small skillet, toast panko breadcrumbs with a bit of butter until golden. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese before serving, along with chopped parsley.

Serving and Storing Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese

This mac and cheese is best served hot and fresh, straight from the pot with the panko topping sprinkled right before serving. It’s perfect as a main dish with a side salad or a creamy sidekick to your favorite protein.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess. Avoid freezing—the sauce can become grainy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep mac and cheese creamy when reheating?

Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating on the stove or microwave, and stir frequently to maintain the smooth texture.

Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack can be used depending on your flavor preference.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded works in a pinch, but for the best melt and texture, freshly shredded cheese is preferred.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

What protein can I add to this mac and cheese?

Try adding shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, or grilled sausage for a heartier meal.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and heat just before serving for best results.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese hit the spot, check out these other mouthwatering pasta favorites from the site:

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I’d love to hear how your mac and cheese turned out! Did you keep it classic or add your own spin? Leave a comment and let’s inspire each other in the kitchen.

Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made simple. All the cheesy richness and velvety sauce you love, with fewer dishes thanks to one-pot magic. Perfect for weeknights or potlucks, it’s a family-friendly favorite with irresistible flavor and texture.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste.

3. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

5. Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot and stir until noodles are evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.

6. (Optional) In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and toast the panko breadcrumbs until golden. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese before serving with fresh parsley.