Oh my gosh, if there’s one dish that wraps around my heart like a cozy blanket, it’s got to be *Mac & Cheese Skillet*! I remember the first time I made it; I was feeling a bit down, and nothing lifts my spirits quite like creamy, cheesy goodness. This dish is just so comforting! You get that amazing combination of flavors with minimal effort. Seriously, it’s a one-pot wonder that comes together in no time at all. You just boil the pasta, toss everything in a skillet, and let the magic happen. The best part? You can customize it however you want! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a late-night snack, this mac and cheese is always a hit. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients List

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather all the goodies you’ll need for this delicious *Mac & Cheese Skillet*. I promise, it’s super simple! Here’s what you’ll need:

8 oz elbow macaroni (that’s about 2 cups dry)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (the more, the cheesier!)
1 cup milk (whole milk for creaminess is best)
2 tbsp butter (unsalted, so you can control the salt)
1/2 tsp garlic powder (for that lovely aroma)
1/2 tsp onion powder (adds a subtle sweetness)
Salt to taste (always adjust to your preference!)
Black pepper to taste (just a pinch for some zing!)

Got everything? Awesome! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Mac & Cheese Skillet

Alright, let’s get down to the good stuff! Making this *Mac & Cheese Skillet* is as easy as pie, or should I say, as easy as mac and cheese? Here’s a step-by-step to guide you through this cheesy adventure. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each part!

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

First things first, you’ll want to cook your macaroni. Grab a pot and fill it with water—about 4 cups should do the trick. Bring that to a rolling boil and toss in a pinch of salt. Add the 8 oz of elbow macaroni and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes until al dente. You don’t want it too soft because it’ll continue cooking in the skillet. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside. Easy peasy!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Now, let’s get that buttery goodness going! In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally, so it doesn’t brown—just a lovely melting, not sizzling. This should take about a minute or two. Oh, the smell of melting butter is heavenly!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, add your cooked macaroni to the skillet with the melted butter. Pour in 1 cup of milk and give it a good stir to coat everything. Make sure to mix it well; you want that buttery milk to hug every piece of macaroni. It’s all about that creamy texture, right? This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is delicious!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Now, here comes the fun part! Sprinkle in your 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, along with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. You should see that gooey, cheesy magic happening—it’s so satisfying!

Step 5: Cook Until Melted

Continue to cook the mixture for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is completely melted and the whole thing is bubbling gently. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s thick and creamy, just like the mac and cheese dreams are made of! If it looks too thick, you can add a splash more milk to loosen it up—no one likes dry mac!

Step 6: Serve Hot

Finally, it’s time to dig in! Serve your *Mac & Cheese Skillet* hot right from the pan. If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle some extra cheese on top or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color. Trust me, this dish is best enjoyed straight away while it’s all warm and gooey. Grab a big spoon and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This *Mac & Cheese Skillet* is truly a game-changer in the kitchen, and I’m so excited to share all the reasons why you’ll adore it just as much as I do! Here are some highlights:

Quick Preparation: It comes together in just 25 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious FAST.
Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, there’s minimal mess to deal with afterward. Less time scrubbing means more time enjoying your meal!
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix it up! You can add your favorite proteins or veggies, or even swap in different cheeses for a unique twist each time.
Comfort Food Appeal: There’s nothing quite like a creamy, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese to warm your heart and soul. It’s like a hug in food form!

Seriously, this dish has it all—deliciousness, convenience, and the ability to make everyone at the table smile. What’s not to love?

Tips for Success

Alright, my friend, let’s make sure your *Mac & Cheese Skillet* turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some pro tips that I swear by:

Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Remember, you want it al dente! It’ll continue to cook when you add it to the skillet, so pulling it off a minute early is a smart move. Trust me, mushy macaroni is a sad situation!
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, don’t be afraid to mix in some mozzarella or even a bit of pepper jack for a kick. Each cheese brings its own flavor, and the combination can be divine!
Adjust the Creaminess: If you want it extra creamy, try adding a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese. It makes the texture even more luscious—so good!
Season Generously: Taste as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to add more garlic powder, onion powder, or even a hint of cayenne for some warmth.
Add-Ins are Your Friend: Want to jazz it up? Toss in some cooked bacon, steamed broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms. It’s a great way to sneak in more nutrients and flavor!
Don’t Rush the Cheese Melting: Let that cheese melt slowly to get that perfect gooey texture. If it’s not melting as you’d like, turn the heat down a touch and keep stirring. Patience is key!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be a *Mac & Cheese Skillet* superstar in no time! Everyone will be asking for your secret—so just smile and nod, because it’s all about the love you put into it!

Variations on Mac & Cheese Skillet

One of the best things about *Mac & Cheese Skillet* is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. Let’s dive into some fun variations that will keep your mac and cheese exciting!

Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t feel limited to cheddar! Try mixing in mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey texture or toss in some gouda for a smoky flavor. For a tangy twist, add a handful of crumbled feta or some blue cheese. The options are endless!
Bacon Bliss: If you’re a bacon fan (who isn’t?), cook some up and crumble it into your mac and cheese. The salty crunch adds a delightful contrast to the creaminess. You could also swap in crispy pancetta for a gourmet touch!
Veggie Delight: Want to sneak in some veggies? Go for it! Add in steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or even roasted bell peppers for a pop of color and nutrition. Zucchini or peas work great too—just toss them in when you combine the ingredients.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce while mixing. For a unique flavor, try adding some taco seasoning or Cajun spices to kick things up a notch!
Italian Twist: Stir in some Italian herbs like oregano and basil, and consider adding diced tomatoes or a spoonful of pesto for an Italian-inspired dish. It’s a fun way to change up the flavor profile!
Buffalo Style: Craving something with a kick? Stir in some buffalo sauce for a spicy twist, and top with blue cheese crumbles. It’ll be like a wing-inspired mac and cheese that’s sure to impress!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of *Mac & Cheese Skillet*. The beauty of this dish is that it can be whatever you want it to be—so get creative and have fun with it!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this *Mac & Cheese Skillet*! Now, just a heads up, these values are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying in each delicious bite. Here’s what you can expect:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 400
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 15g

This dish is a hearty option that balances comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to fill you up while keeping things deliciously cheesy. Enjoy every creamy mouthful!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftovers? No problem! Storing your *Mac & Cheese Skillet* properly will keep it tasting great for days. Here’s how I do it:

Cool it Down: Before you store any leftovers, make sure to let the mac and cheese cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make your cheesy goodness a bit soggy.
Choose the Right Container: Use an airtight container to keep your mac and cheese fresh. I like to use glass containers because they’re easy to clean and don’t retain odors. If you’re using plastic, make sure it’s BPA-free!
Refrigerate: Store your *Mac & Cheese Skillet* in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when it’s time to enjoy it again!

Now, when it comes to reheating, I’ve got a couple of tips to keep that creamy texture intact:

Stovetop Reheating: This is my go-to method! Just take a skillet, add your leftover mac and cheese, and a splash of milk or cream. Heat it over medium-low, stirring frequently until it’s warmed through and creamy again. The added liquid helps revive that luscious sauce!
Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Place your mac and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl, add a little milk, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s nice and hot. Just be careful not to overheat it, as it can dry out.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, your *Mac & Cheese Skillet* will stay delicious and comforting, ready to enjoy whenever you’re craving that cheesy goodness again!

What to Do Next

Wow, you’ve made it to the end of the *Mac & Cheese Skillet* journey! I hope you’re feeling inspired to whip up this creamy, cheesy delight in your own kitchen. Now, I’d love to hear from you! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Did you add any fun twists or variations? I’m always excited to hear how others make it their own!

Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to rate it! Your feedback not only makes my day, but it also helps others find this delicious dish. And hey, if you have friends or family who would love this mac and cheese magic, why not share the recipe with them? It’s the perfect comfort food to gather everyone around the table.

Thanks for stopping by, and happy cooking! I can’t wait to see how your *Mac & Cheese Skillet* turns out!

Mac & Cheese Skillet: 5 Comforting Cheesy Delights

Author: CakesLouna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy and cheesy one-pot mac and cheese dish cooked in a skillet.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet.
Pour in the milk and stir.
Add the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Cook until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
Serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or vegetables.
You can use different types of cheese for variety.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 400
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Mac & Cheese Skillet, easy mac and cheese, one-pot mac and cheese

Spread the love