Garlic Shrimp Pasta in One Pan
25 min • 420 cal
American • Dinner
One Pot Mac and Cheese
25 minEasy4 servings
🧮Serving Size Calculator
4
servings
450
calories
18g
protein
52g
carbs
20g
fat
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, crispy bacon
Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux) and turns light golden.
- 2
Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. Whisk until smooth.
- 3
Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in elbow macaroni, making sure all pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- 4
Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- 5
Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until each addition is fully melted and incorporated.
- 6
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. For a creamier consistency, add a splash more milk if needed.
- 7
Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes — the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools slightly.
- 8
Serve immediately, garnished with optional toppings like breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, or crispy bacon.
Pro Tips
💡
Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce — pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
💡
Cook the pasta al dente — it will continue to cook in the sauce as it thickens.
💡
For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cheese.
🍳
One Pan Tip
To make cleanup even easier, line your pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil before cooking. This recipe is designed to cook everything in one pan, so you'll only have one pot to wash!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to make One Pot Mac and Cheese?
Follow the step-by-step instructions above. This recipe takes about 25 min and is rated easy difficulty.
Is One Pot Mac and Cheese suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
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