Go Back
One-pot stovetop mac and cheese in a stainless steel pot with a wooden spoon.

Quick & Easy One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Quick & Easy One-Pot Stovetop Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made entirely on the stove with minimal effort. It’s rich, warm, and satisfying, with the bonus of using just one pot for easy cleanup.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 ½ cups milk
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder or a tiny splash of mustard

Method
 

  1. Add pasta, milk, and water to the pot and stir gently so the pasta doesn’t stick.
  2. Cook over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often so the milk doesn’t scorch
  3. Simmer for about 10–12 minutes (depending on the pasta type), stirring every minute or so, until pasta is tender and the liquid reduces and thickens.
  4. Turn off the heat and stir in butter once the pasta is cooked and there’s still a little creamy liquid in the pot.
  5. Add shredded cheese slowly, a handful at a time, stirring until melted before adding more.
  6. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then taste and adjust. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Notes

  • Stir often and keep the heat at a gentle simmer to prevent milk from scorching.
  • For best texture, shred cheese fresh (pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly).
  • If the mac thickens after sitting, add a splash of warm milk and stir to loosen it.
  • Optional cheese swaps: cheddar + mozzarella, pepper jack, parmesan, cream cheese.
  • Serving ideas: BBQ chicken, burgers, grilled vegetables, nuggets, meatloaf.