This is the “revolutionary” mac and cheese that’s been all over Pinterest lately. Just for the heck of it, I priced how much it would cost to make compared to a box mix. For 3 servings, you will spend about $1.30 (assuming decent prices on milk and cheese). For a $.75 box, it costs $1.10 to make up. That’s not too bad because this definitely tastes much better and doesn’t take much longer. I’d say it’s worth the extra $.20. One pot macaroni and cheese is an awesome thing to have around when you just can’t stand making one more blue box for the kids.
Boil together until noodles are tender. Don’t drain it because the liquid should get absorbed.
2 1/2 c. whole milk
2 1/2 c. water
3 c. macaroni
(This step takes a bit longer than it does with just macaroni and water, about 15 minutes.)
Instant Pot: Cook at high pressure for 8 minutes with a quick release. If you’re using a noodle other than macaroni, cook it for 2/3 of the maximum time on box.
Add the rest of the ingredients and stir until combined:
1/2 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
pinch cayenne pepper or 1/2 t. hot sauce
2 c. shredded Cheddar cheese: the sharper, the better (about 8 oz.)
Enjoy your one pot macaroni and cheese with steamed veggies or another side. My family loves any form of chicken, but I’m happy for mac and cheese to be a main dish!
Find more delicious main dishes here.


One Pot Macaroni and Cheese
Equipment
- pressure cooker
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups milk whole
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 3 cups macaroni
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
- Boil the noodles in the milk and water until tender, about 15 minutes. Do not drain. Or, cook in the pressure cooker for 8 minutes with a quick release.2 1/2 cups milk, 2 1/2 cups water, 3 cups macaroni
- Add the remaining ingredients and stir until combined. Serve with steamed veggies or another side.1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, 2 cups Cheddar cheese