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Easy One-Pot Dorm Room Mac and Cheese

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This creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is made entirely in one pot—no boiling pasta separately, no draining. Ready in 20 minutes with simple, budget-friendly ingredients, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy students or anyone craving a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium pot over medium heat until bubbly, about 1 minute.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  5. Add the dry elbow macaroni directly to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around the edges).
  7. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of milk if too thick.
  8. Check pasta for doneness; it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Cook 2 more minutes if needed.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth, about 1 minute.
  10. Let sit for 2 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheddar cheese instead of using pre-shredded. If the sauce becomes grainy, remove from heat and whisk in a splash of cold milk. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or in the microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, dorm room recipe, quick mac and cheese, budget-friendly mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/easy-one-pot-dorm-room-mac-and-cheese-best-quick-recipe/