Macaroni and cheese, affectionately known as Mac & Cheese, is a classic comfort food beloved by people of all ages. Its creamy, cheesy goodness has made it a staple in American households and beyond. Today, we are simplifying this beloved dish even further with a 3-ingredient recipe that promises all the flavor without the fuss. This straightforward version is perfect for busy weeknights, new cooks, or anyone looking to whip up a quick and satisfying meal with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 5 cups of milk (1 ¼ liters)
- 1 lb of elbow macaroni (455 grams), dry
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (200 grams)
Preparation
Step 1:
In a large pot, bring the milk to a boil. Be sure to watch it closely as milk tends to boil over quickly.
Step 2:
Add the dry elbow macaroni to the boiling milk. Stir constantly to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot and to ensure even cooking.
Step 3:
Continue to cook the pasta in the milk, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes. The milk not only cooks the pasta but also starts to reduce into a thicker base for the sauce.
Step 4:
Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot and stir until the cheese is completely melted and the pasta is evenly coated with a creamy cheese sauce.
Step 5:
Serve the Mac & Cheese immediately while it's warm and creamy. Enjoy the fruits of your minimal labor with maximum flavor!
Cooking Note
Maintain a gentle boil when cooking the pasta in milk to avoid burning the milk at the bottom of the pot. Adjust the heat as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This simple Mac & Cheese can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad for added nutrition. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or steamed vegetables.
Tips
- For an extra creamy texture, choose full-fat milk.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- To add a bit of crunch and color, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
Prep Time:
- 5 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 803 per serving
- Protein: 37 grams
- Sodium: Information not available, but consider that cheese generally adds a significant amount of sodium.
Conclusion
This 3-ingredient Mac & Cheese is not only a testament to the power of simplicity but also a gateway to creative cooking. It invites both new and experienced cooks to enjoy the pleasures of homemade comfort food with minimal effort. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this recipe delivers a comforting, creamy, and satisfying dish every time, proving that sometimes less really is more.
Print3 ingredient Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Whip up a delicious and creamy Mac & Cheese with just three ingredients. This simple recipe delivers ultimate comfort food with minimal effort, perfect for a quick dinner or side dish.
Ingredients
- 5 cups milk
- 1 lb elbow macaroni, dry
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the milk to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Notes
- Stir frequently to prevent the milk from burning.
- Use full-fat milk for the creamiest texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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