Hey y'all! If you're craving a dish that wraps you in cheesy, creamy comfort, this Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe is just what you need. With its gooey cheese, silky sauce, and tender pasta, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or whenever you need a little homemade happiness on your plate. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, every bite is pure bliss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
- Ultra-creamy texture with perfectly melted cheese in every bite.
- One-skillet recipe means easy cleanup and less mess.
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses or add-ins.
- Family-friendly comfort food that everyone will request again!
Ingredients for Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe
- 2 cups (8 oz) elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
How to Make Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling but not browned.
- Gradually whisk in the warmed milk. Stir constantly for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
- Remove skillet from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until completely melted and smooth.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
- If desired, broil skillet macaroni in a preheated oven for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden on top (optional but delicious!).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Notes for Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe
- Warm your milk before adding it to the roux for a smoother sauce and less clumping (see this guide).
- Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is best to avoid mushy macaroni after mixing with the sauce.
- For extra flavor, use a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère.
Variations on Skillet Mac n Cheese
- Bacon Lover’s: Stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon before serving.
- Veggie-Packed: Add 1 cup steamed broccoli or peas for a nutritious twist.
- Spicy: Mix in 1 diced jalapeño and a pinch of cayenne for a zesty kick.
Required Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet (10-12 inch)
- Whisk
- Large saucepan or pot
- Colander
- Measuring cups & spoons
Storage Instructions for Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe
Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate.
Serving Recommendations and Pairings
- Pair this skillet macaroni with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or BBQ ribs for a hearty family dinner.
- Top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a restaurant-quality finish.
Pro Tips for Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce (find out why here).
- Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy.
- Stir gently to preserve the pasta's texture and avoid breaking the macaroni.
Frequently Asked Questions: Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe
- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely—just follow the package directions and check for doneness a minute early.
- What’s the best cheese for creamy mac and cheese? A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully, but add Gruyère or Monterey Jack for extra richness.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prepare as directed, then store in the fridge and gently reheat with a splash of milk before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
-
1Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
2In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
-
3Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
-
4Add the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
-
5Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the cheese sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
-
6Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!