Inspired by videopastaamerican
Easy 3-Ingredient Mac and Cheese
Easy 3-Ingredient Mac and Cheese is an American pasta built around whole milk, elbow macaroni and cheddar cheese, from The Cooking Foodie, ready in 18 minutes.
Easy 3-Ingredient Mac and Cheese is an American pasta built around whole milk, elbow macaroni and cheddar cheese, from The Cooking Foodie, ready in 18 minutes.
3 min
Prep time
15 min
Cook time
18 min
Total time
6 servings
Yield
Ingredients
6 ingredientsPer serving443 kcal
- Fat
- 17g
- Carbs
- 51g
- Protein
- 20g
Whole recipe (6 servings): 2658 kcal
- 4 cups (1 litre) whole milk
- 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- 7 oz (200 g) cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt, to taste (optional)
- Black pepper, to taste (optional)
- Paprika, to taste (optional)
Method
5 steps- Pour the whole milk into a large saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir regularly and watch carefully so the milk does not scorch or boil over.
- Add the elbow macaroni and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender and most of the milk has been absorbed. Do not drain the pasta.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar and stir until completely melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, black pepper and paprika if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Recipe notes
Helpful tips
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture.
- Keep the milk at a gentle simmer and stir frequently because milk can scorch easily.
- Shred the cheddar from a block if possible; pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- If the macaroni becomes too thick, stir in a small splash of warm milk before serving.
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups
- Kitchen scale
- Cheese grater
Storage
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk and stirring regularly to restore the creamy consistency.
Additional tips
- Contains milk and wheat. Check the pasta and cheese labels for additional allergens. Stir the milk regularly while heating because it can scorch or boil over.
Recipe inspiration
Inspired by The Cooking Foodie
Estimated nutrition
Per serving: 443 calories
Fat: 17 g · Carbs: 51 g · Protein: 20 g
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