Sometime you just need a big comforting bowl of Mac and Cheese. This recipe is so easy and only takes 30 minutes! Now this cheesy goodness is not what I would consider a healthy meal, but sometimes you just need a bowl of comfort! I try to eat a big salad or some veggies with it so I don't feel as guilty splurging.
How to make Easy Mac and Cheese:
- In a large skillet heat up the garlic powder, pepper, salt, milk, and heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
- Turn down the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, montery jack, and swiss cheese.
- Toss the hot cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce and serve!
Want to make it a meal? Here are some additional ingredients you could add:
- Frozen peas and cooked ham or chicken
- Cook chicken and broccoli (buy a Rotisserie chicken to keep it really easy)
- Fresh spinach and sauteed mushrooms
- If you added canned tuna it would be like a tuna noodle casserole
You could also swap out the cheese for others and make your own unique combination. The options are endless!
What could you serve with Mac and Cheese?
I love serving this cheesy pasta with Pan Fried Chicken Cutlets, Baked Pork Chops, or a when we are hosting a barbecue. Most of the time I eat mine with a big bowl of roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts or broccoli.
If you love this recipe, I would love to know! You can rate this recipe and leave a comment below. If you take a picture tag me on Instagram @hungrywaitress! Here?s the recipe:
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30 Minute Skillet Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
30 Minute Skillet Mac and Cheese is a fast side dish recipe or dinner recipe. This cheesy macaroni comes together in a flash, and it tastes better than the box. I love it! It's one of my favorite comfort food recipes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (1 box) medium shell pasta, cooked
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup swiss cheese, shredded or sliced
Instructions
- In a large skillet heat up the garlic powder, pepper, salt, milk, and heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
- Turn down the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, montery jack, and swiss cheese.
- Toss the hot cooked pasta shells into the cheese sauce and serve!
Notes
If the sauce is too thick, splash in some extra milk.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
Looking for more pasta dishes? Check these recipes out:
Easy Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables
Vegan Sundried Tomato Pesto Zucchini and Mushroom Pasta
Karly says
Must have all the cheeeeese! This is like bliss in a skillet. I might just have to whip up a batch for a late night snack... don't tell the hubby! 😉
thehungrywaitress says
Yes! I eat cheese in secret too (mostly so I don't have to share). Haha!
Wendy says
Great recipe! Confess....I threw in chicken & broccoli ....but no matter, the family loved this macaroni recipe and they are self proclaimed macaroni snobs. Good Job!
thehungrywaitress says
Thank you Wendy! I am a macaroni and cheese snob too, but I love this combination. I am going to have to try it with chicken and broccoli! That sounds delicious.
Sueann Biffle says
As a Newbie, I am always exploring online for articles that can aid me. Thank you
thehungrywaitress says
Thank you Sueann!
Robin Mcgown says
I have recently started a blog, and the info you offer on this website has helped me greatly. Thanx for all of your time & work.
thehungrywaitress says
Thank you Robin!
Maria Coppinger-Peters says
Does this reheat well, or does the sauce break? Thx!
thehungrywaitress says
Sorry for the delayed reply! The sauce will break if you microwave it. I would reheat it on the stove and add some cream or milk to it.