Skillet Mac and Cheese (25 Minutes)

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This skillet mac and cheese brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful finish under the oven broiler for that slightly crispy cheese layer on top. While traditional recipes might call for a breadcrumb topping, we’re opting for an extra sprinkle of cheese to deliver that ooey-gooey experience. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s comfort food that feels just a touch gourmet.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta shape
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided into 1.5 cups and 0.5 cups)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or basil), chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta (8-10 minutes): In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Cheese Sauce (5-7 minutes): In the same pot or a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until a roux forms. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue cooking, frequently stirring, until the mixture thickens. Reduce heat to low, then add 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Stir until cheese is fully melted into a smooth sauce.
  3. Combine Pasta with Sauce (2-3 minutes): Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring all the pasta is well coated in the cheese sauce.
  4. Broil the Mac and Cheese (2-4 minutes): Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cups of cheddar cheese on top of the mac and cheese. Place the skillet under the oven broiler for 2-4 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  5. Garnish and Serve (1 minute): Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

This skillet mac and cheese is a dish best served immediately to enjoy its molten cheesy goodness. If you want an extra burst of flavor, consider mixing in a spicy cheese like pepper jack or even some crumbled blue cheese. When pairing, a simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent companions to this rich dish. If you have leftovers, reheating gently on the stove with a splash of milk will help revive its creamy texture.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Pair this with...

Simple Steamed Broccoli

Begin with fresh broccoli, breaking it into even-sized florets to ensure uniform steaming. Rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities and to refresh their natural green hue. In a pot with a steamer insert, bring a small amount of water to a boil, ensuring the water level remains below the steamer. Place the broccoli florets into the steamer, covering the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Within a few minutes, the broccoli will transform into a brighter shade of green, signaling its readiness. Once tender but still slightly crisp, transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. A sprinkle of sea salt, a light drizzle of olive oil, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance its earthy taste.

Lemony Kale Salad

Start by de-stemming your kale leaves and chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Remember, kale can be a bit tough, so give it a little massage with your hands to soften it up and enhance its natural sweetness. For the dressing, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, some zesty lemon zest, olive oil, and a hint of salt and pepper. This simple dressing is a burst of citrusy goodness that pairs beautifully with the robustness of the kale. Toss the massaged kale in the lemon dressing, ensuring every leafy nook and cranny is coated. To finish, sprinkle on sunflower seeds and pine nuts for a delightful crunch.

Garlic Knots

Start with some store-bought or homemade pizza dough for convenience. Roll it out on a floured surface and slice it into even strips. Take each strip and tie it into a simple knot, placing each one onto a baking sheet. Pop them into a preheated oven and let them bake until they're golden and slightly puffed. While they're doing their magic in the oven, melt some butter in a pan and sauté finely minced garlic until it's fragrant but not browned. Add a sprinkle of salt, parsley, and maybe even a dash of grated Parmesan cheese to this buttery concoction. Once the knots are out of the oven and still warm, generously brush them with your garlic butter mixture.

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