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Mac and cheese is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. The creamy, cheesy goodness is a comfort food staple that has delighted generations, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this quintessential comfort food has an undeniable appeal that transcends age. In this article, we'll explore a delightful take on this classic with the Cheesy Dream One-Pot Mac & Cheese—a recipe that simplifies preparation without sacrificing the rich flavors you love.

One-Pot School Lunch Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Dream One-Pot Mac & Cheese, a comfort food classic that's easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. This one-pot recipe simplifies dinner, allowing you to create a rich and flavorful dish without a mess. Discover how to achieve perfect creaminess with cheddar and mozzarella and explore delightful variations by adding vegetables, proteins, or spices. Perfect for busy nights or family gatherings, this mac and cheese is sure to please!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1 cup whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup frozen peas (optional, for added color and nutrition)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Combine the Pasta and Broth:

    In a large pot, combine 2 cups of elbow macaroni with 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the broth has been absorbed, approximately 8-10 minutes.

      Add the Dairy and Seasonings:

        Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of whole milk along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Then, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until the butter melts and is fully incorporated.

          Cheesy Goodness:

            Gradually introduce the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and create a creamy sauce that coats the macaroni well. If you’re including the frozen peas for a pop of color and nutrition, stir them in now to allow them to heat through.

              Adjust Consistency:

                For a creamier mac and cheese, if the mixture seems too thick, add a splash more milk or broth until you reach your desired creaminess. Feel free to adjust seasonings as you see fit.

                  Serve and Garnish:

                    Remove the pot from the heat source. Dish out the mac and cheese into individual serving bowls. Sprinkle each serving with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and, if desired, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

                      Enjoy:

                        Your one-pot macaroni and cheese is now ready to be savored! This dish is perfect for school lunches—pack it in thermoses to keep it warm until it’s time to eat.

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings