Skillet Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and flavorful Skillet Macaroni and Cheese, a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This easy recipe elevates the classic mac and cheese with a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella, all created directly in an oven-safe skillet for minimal cleanup. Perfectly cooked al dente elbow macaroni is coated in a luscious homemade roux-based sauce, seasoned to perfection with a hint of paprika for optional garnish. Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish, this family-friendly dish serves four and is the epitome of cheesy goodness. Whether you're seeking a quick dinner idea or a soul-warming side dish, this skillet masterpiece is sure to deliver unparalleled flavor and satisfaction.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2.5 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 4 cups water
Instructions
In a large oven-safe skillet, add 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should become smooth and slightly golden.
Gradually pour in 2.5 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with 1 teaspoon of salt and 0.5 teaspoons of black pepper. Stir to combine.
Add the drained macaroni back into the skillet and mix well to coat the pasta evenly with the cheese sauce.
Optional: Sprinkle 0.25 teaspoons of paprika over the top for garnish, if desired.
Serve hot directly from the skillet. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Skillet Macaroni and Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2676 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 143.1 g | 183% | |
| Saturated Fat | 86.6 g | 433% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 462 mg | 154% | |
| Sodium | 4988 mg | 217% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 206.5 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.3 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.7 g | ||
| Protein | 135.2 g | 270% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.8 mcg | 34% | |
| Calcium | 3243 mg | 249% | |
| Iron | 8.4 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 965 mg | 21% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
