Print

Quick Creamy Midnight Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy One-Pot Dinner

quick creamy midnight mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and creamy one-pot mac and cheese recipe perfect for late-night cravings or easy dinners, made with simple pantry staples and a subtle tang from Dijon mustard.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 225 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • 2 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200 grams)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or dash of hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Gather ingredients and prep: shred cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, measure pasta, milk, butter, and seasonings. (5 minutes)
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat until foamy but not browned.
  3. Sprinkle flour over melted butter and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a pale roux.
  4. Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir as mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Add elbow macaroni and stir to submerge noodles in sauce. Cover with lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes.
  7. Check pasta for doneness; it should be al dente. Add splash of milk or water if needed and continue cooking.
  8. Remove lid and stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add more milk if sauce is too thick.
  9. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or hot sauce. Serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Adjust liquid as needed to maintain creamy sauce. Low and slow heat prevents sauce separation. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang. Can add veggies or proteins like chicken or bacon for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, one-pot dinner, quick recipe, creamy mac and cheese, midnight snack, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/quick-creamy-midnight-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-one-pot-dinner/