One-Pot Mac&Cheese
One-Pot Mac & Cheese: Cozy, Comforting, and Nourishing
There’s something about a bowl of Mac & Cheese… I grew up with Annies boxed Mac and cheese, and while it’s definitely better for you than Kraft, it’s not exactly a health food. Learning to make it this way is a game changer, all the nostalgic comfort food qualities, and it is fast easy and nourishing! Using real ingredients like bone broth, whole raw milk, and high-quality cheese, I think this is basically a health food.
This one-pot mac and cheese is my go-to because it’s quick, easy, and leaves minimal dishes (always a win!). Cooking the pasta directly in bone broth annd whole milk infuses it with extra minerals and richness. A good sharp cheddar melts beautifully, creating that luscious, velvety texture we all love. I prefer a brown rice pasta for this as the starchiness helps to make a nice thick sauce. All of the ingredients I get from our food buying club Azure standard - a case of broth, a five pound block of the best cheddar, and a bulk bag of the pasta- so i always have the ingredients to make this on hand.
Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner, a quick lunch, or even a warm snack after a winter’s walk, it’s the kind of meal that brings simple joy to the table.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite small pasta, i actually prefer a brown rice pasta)
1.5 cups bone broth (chicken or beef work well), more as needed
1.5 cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ tsp salt (or more to taste)
½ tsp ground mustard (adds depth of flavor)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, add dry pasta, and cover with milk and broth, adding salt and seasoning
2. Bring to a simmer and then reduce to low, watch that it doesn’t boil over!.
3. When pasta is done, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese, mixing until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm!
Make It Your Own: Toppings & Add-Ins
One of the best things about homemade mac and cheese is that you can customize it in so many ways! Here are a few ideas to make it even more nourishing and delicious:
For Extra Protein:
Shredded chicken ~Add cooked, shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
Ground beef or turkey ~ Browned meat stirred in makes this a filling dinner.
For More Veggies:
Steamed broccoli, frozen peas stirred in towards the end,
Caramelized onions & mushrooms Deep, savory flavors that take it up a notch
Spinach or kale Stir in at the end for a dose of greens.
For a Crunchy Topping:
Toasted sourdough breadcrumbs
Crumbled up Masa Corn Chips.
Parmesan crisps for an extra cheesy bite.
For a Flavor Boost:
A dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of Dijon mustard, or a bit of smoked paprika (my personal go to)
Mac and cheese doesn’t have to be just a nostalgic indulgence, it can be deeply nourishing when made with real, wholesome ingredients. This one-pot version brings all the coziness with none of the fuss, making it perfect for a quick meal on a chilly day.
I hope you love this recipe as much as I do!
Warmly,
Amelia
