One Pot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 16 oz uncooked pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or broth of choice
- more or less to taste1 tsp kosher salt
- more or less to taste1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
grated
- 1 cup monterrey jack cheese
grated
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
or milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3 cloves minced garlic
Directions
- 1
Add pasta, broth, garlic, broccoli, and seasonings. Stir. Bring to a boil, and cover. Reduce heat to medium-low and and cook for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- 2
Add cheese, heavy cream remaning ingredients and stir until nice and creamy. Add a splash of milk if you like it creamier. Option: Feel free to broil in the oven for a few minutes to crisp the top!
One Pot Mac and Cheese
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Based on 20 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving the ultimate comfort food without a stack of dirty dishes? This One Pot Mac and Cheese recipe delivers luscious, cheesy goodness with minimal fuss, making it perfect for any busy weeknight.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic lies in cooking everything in a single pot, infusing the pasta with savory broth and garlic from the start. This unique method ensures every bite of pasta is deeply flavorful, while the combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack creates an irresistibly smooth, rich sauce that everyone will love. Plus, the clever addition of fresh broccoli florets means you're adding a healthy green right into the mix.
What to Expect
Prepare for a truly satisfying bowl of creamy, dreamy mac and cheese. The pasta emerges tender and coated in a velvety, golden sauce, with the distinct tang of cheddar beautifully balanced by the melt-in-your-mouth mildness of Monterey Jack. Each forkful is punctuated by tender-crisp pieces of broccoli, adding a welcome freshness and textural contrast to the comforting richness. It's a delightful twist on a classic, offering both comfort and convenience in one delightful dish.
Customization & Variations
- Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses; a touch of Gouda or Parmesan would also be delicious.
- For a slightly lighter sauce, you can swap the heavy cream for additional whole milk.
- While broccoli adds a wonderful touch, other quick-cooking vegetables like frozen peas or chopped spinach can also be stirred in towards the end.
- Adjust the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your personal taste preference.
Serving & Context
This One Pot Mac and Cheese is the quintessential comforting meal, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a quick, satisfying lunch. Serve it as a complete meal on its own, or pair it with a crisp side salad for a fresh contrast.