Dinner

One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese (Stovetop) Recipe

Bylina moretti October 27, 2025October 27, 2025

Introduction

This One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made easy on the stovetop. With a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, it offers a rich, cheesy flavor that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

A large light gray pot filled with cooked elbow macaroni pasta covered in a thick, creamy, golden-yellow cheese sauce, the sauce spreading unevenly around the curved pasta shapes. A wooden spoon with a dark handle rests in the pot, partially submerged in the cheesy mixture. On the wooden table near the pot, there are two bright yellow lemons and one dark green lime. A white cloth is partly visible near the bottom. The scene is lit by natural soft sunlight. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked macaroni or pasta of your choice
3 cups water
3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
2.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
2 cups mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1.5 tbsp paprika (adjust to taste)
1 tsp mustard
1.5 tsp sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Grate the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Measure and prepare all other ingredients so they are ready to add.
Step 2: In a large pot, combine the uncooked macaroni and 3 cups of water. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
Step 3: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the pasta according to package instructions or until al dente. Let most of the water evaporate, leaving just a little bit in the pot, then lower the heat to low.
Step 4: Add the heavy cream, grated cheeses, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard, and sugar to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a sharper flavor, try adding a little extra sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before serving.
Use whole milk if you want a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
Add cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or hot sauce for extra flavor and texture.
If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.

How to Serve

A round white bowl holds a creamy, bright orange macaroni and cheese topped with dark brown, crispy bits and sprinkled with green herbs. The macaroni is elbow-shaped and covered in smooth, melted cheese with some browned spots on top. In the background, there is a pink pot filled with more macaroni and cheese, placed partly on a white marbled surface. A lemon and a lime rest nearby on the wooden table, with soft natural light casting shadows across the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Why do I need to leave some water in the pot when the pasta is done?

Leaving a little water helps the cheese sauce stay creamy and prevents the mac and cheese from drying out. The remaining water blends with the cream and cheese to create a smooth texture.