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Creamy Easy Skillet Mac and Cheese

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A quick and simple one-pan mac and cheese recipe that delivers creamy, cheesy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 225 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml), warmed slightly
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (about 100 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In your skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Avoid browning.
  3. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the melted butter. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and thicken the sauce.
  4. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of warmed whole milk a little at a time, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. The sauce should thicken in 3-4 minutes. Add more milk if too thick.
  5. Stir in 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional). Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir gently to coat with cheese sauce. Heat for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Remove from heat and let sit for 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Notes

Add cheese gradually over low heat to avoid grainy sauce. Warm milk before adding to prevent lumps. If sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk before serving. For a crusty top, broil with extra cheese for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, skillet mac and cheese, quick dinner, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, easy recipe

Find it online: https://snappyspoon.com/creamy-easy-skillet-mac-and-cheese-recipe-perfect-for-quick-dinners/