This creamy one pot mac and cheese is the kind of cozy dinner that makes everyone come back for seconds. It is rich, simple, and made with easy pantry staples, plus turkey bacon for a smoky finish.
Creamy One Pot Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or another small pasta shape
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
- 4 slices turkey bacon cooked and chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste
- 1 pinch smoked paprika optional
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the turkey bacon until crisp. Transfer it to a plate, leaving a little bit of the rendered fat or adding a small knob of butter if needed.
- Add butter to the pot, then whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring often, until it smells slightly toasty. Slowly whisk in the milk and broth until the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the uncooked macaroni, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered, stirring often so the pasta does not stick.
- When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted and glossy.
- Fold in the chopped turkey bacon, taste, and adjust the seasoning. Serve warm while the sauce is extra creamy.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This This Dish
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with just one pot and a short list of familiar ingredients. The sauce turns silky and cheesy, the pasta cooks right in the pot, and the turkey bacon adds a savory bite that makes the whole dish feel extra satisfying.
This Dish Ingredients & Substitutions
- Elbow macaroni, or another small pasta shape
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Chicken broth
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
- Turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth
If you need swaps, use whole milk for a richer sauce, or add a splash more broth if the pasta looks too thick while cooking. You can also change the cheese blend to suit what you have on hand, just be sure to use good melting cheeses.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Dish
1. Cook the turkey bacon
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the turkey bacon until crisp. Transfer it to a plate, leaving a little bit of the rendered fat or adding a small knob of butter if needed.
2. Build the base
Add butter to the pot, then whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring often, until it smells slightly toasty. Slowly whisk in the milk and broth until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the pasta
Stir in the uncooked macaroni, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cook uncovered, stirring often so the pasta does not stick.
4. Make it creamy
When the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted and glossy.
5. Finish and serve
Fold in the chopped turkey bacon, taste, and adjust the seasoning. Serve warm while the sauce is extra creamy.
Tips for Success
Keep the heat at a gentle simmer so the sauce stays smooth and does not scorch. Stir often, especially near the end of cooking, because one pot pasta can thicken quickly. If the mac and cheese looks too thick, add a splash of warm milk or broth before serving.
Variations of This Dish
You can add steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for a little extra color and texture. For a stronger cheese flavor, mix in a little Parmesan. If you want more smoky flavor, sprinkle in smoked paprika or top with extra chopped turkey bacon before serving.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with This Dish
This mac and cheese is lovely with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm dinner rolls. It also works well as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken, baked fish, or a crisp vegetable soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. Stir well as it warms so the sauce loosens evenly.
Memories Made Around the Table
Some of the best meals are the ones that do not ask for much, just a pot, a spoon, and a few minutes together. This is the sort of recipe that feels comforting on a busy night and still special enough to share.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it is best served fresh. If you make it ahead, save a little milk for reheating so the sauce stays creamy.
What cheese melts best in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, while mozzarella or Monterey Jack helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, small shapes like shells, rotini, or cavatappi work well. Just watch the liquid and cooking time closely.
How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?
Use low heat when adding the cheese and stir until just melted. High heat can cause the sauce to separate.
Final Thoughts
This creamy one pot mac and cheese is easy comfort food at its best. It is simple enough for a weeknight, cozy enough for company, and always a welcome dish at the table.