How to Make "Instant" Mac and Cheese - A Step-by-Step Guide

Mac and cheese is one of the ultimate comfort foods—it’s warm, creamy, and oh so delicious. But sometimes, making traditional mac and cheese can be a time-consuming process. That’s where this “instant” mac and cheese recipe comes in. It’s quick, easy, and still just as tasty as the classic version. Whether you need a quick side dish for dinner or a speedy lunch option, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave, you can have a piping hot bo...

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1 pinch dried mustard (Optional)
  • 1 very small pinch ground nutmeg
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 cup freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup freshly shredded white Cheddar cheese

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Additional Time: 3 mins
  • Total Time: 28 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Bring milk, salt, cayenne, mustard, nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon butter to a simmer in a pot over medium heat. Stir in macaroni. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until firm yet tender to the bite, about 8 minutes. Do not undercook.
  • Meanwhile, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add bread crumbs and toast until golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Stir cheeses into the cooked macaroni. Reduce heat to low and stir just until melted. Turn off heat, cover, and let sit for 3 minutes. Uncover, stir, and season to taste.
  • Spoon mac and cheese into warm serving bowls; sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top.
  • Nutrition

    539 cal.

    • Total Fat: 35g
    • Saturated Fat: 21g
    • Cholesterol: 101mg
    • Sodium: 987mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 36g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 7g
    • Protein: 25g
    • Vitamin C: 0mg
    • Calcium: 600mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 301mg