Craving a comforting bowl of mac and cheese that’s as easy as it is delicious? Look no further! Our One Bowl Mac Cheese recipe is here to satisfy your cheesy cravings in just 30 minutes, using only a microwave and a handful of simple ingredients. Imagine creamy, melted cheddar enveloping perfectly cooked macaroni, all made in a single bowl! Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves a quick and hearty meal, this recipe will become your go-to for a satisfying dish that’s ready in a flash. Dive in and discover how to whip up this American classic with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Fill a large microwave-safe bowl with 8 oz of macaroni and add enough water to cover the pasta completely.
- Microwave the pasta for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Drain excess water from the pasta, leaving just a small amount to help create the cheese sauce.
- Add butter to the same bowl with the cooked pasta and microwave for 30 seconds until melted.
- Sprinkle flour over the melted butter and stir thoroughly to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Microwave the milk mixture for 1-2 minutes, stopping to stir every 30 seconds until it thickens slightly.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to distribute seasoning evenly.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to set and thicken.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps with even mixing and a smoother sauce.
- Microwave with Care: When microwaving the macaroni, keep an eye on it and stir halfway through to prevent it from clumping together.
- Perfect Roux: When making the roux, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the flour. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.
- Whisking is Key: As you add the milk, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. A whisk works better than a spoon for this step!
- Thickening Time: Don’t rush the thickening process in the microwave. Stirring every 30 seconds will help you achieve the right consistency without burning the mixture.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the sauce to thicken up even more for that perfect creamy finish.
- Garnish for Flair: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your dish with additional cheese, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 663kcal
Carbohydrates: 56g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 78mg
