10 Min Mac & Cheese

Hate reading? ME TOO! That’s why I’ve included some videos below.

Craving cheesy pasta but short on time? You’re in luck! This 10-minute mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer. You can whip up the ultimate cheesy goodness in less than 10 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and super tasty.

Want to make it even better? Turn it into a baked version with crispy breadcrumbs on top. Just add some extra cream, sprinkle on the breadcrumbs, and pop it in the oven. You’ll have a delicious, comforting meal in no time.

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this quick and cheesy mac:

• 1/2 pound rotini or elbow pasta
• 2-3 tablespoons butter
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt (for pasta water)

For a baked version, add:

• 1/2 cup extra heavy cream
• Handful of breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Want to change it up? Try these swaps:

• Use milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce
• Swap regular pasta for gluten-free brown rice pasta
• Mix half heavy cream and half 2% milk

Don’t forget to salt your pasta water! It’s key for tasty noodles.

Instructions

Here’s how to make this quick and yummy mac and cheese:

1. 
   

   Boil a big pot of water. Add salt. Cook pasta as the box says.

   
   
2. 
   

   Melt butter in a pan on medium heat.

   
   
3. 
   

   Pour in cream. Stir in cornstarch.

   
   
4. 
   

   Keep stirring until the sauce gets thick. This takes about 3-5 minutes.

   
   
5. 
   

   Turn heat to low. Add cheese. Stir until it melts.

   
   
6. 
   

   Drain the pasta when it’s done.

   
   
7. 
   

   Mix pasta with the cheese sauce in the pan.

   
   
8. 
   

   Taste it. Add salt if needed.

   
   

Your mac and cheese is ready! It’s so easy, you can make it any time you want cheesy comfort food fast.

Want to bake it? Add more cream, top with breadcrumbs and butter, then bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

You can swap ingredients too. Try milk instead of cream, or use gluten-free pasta if you need to. The sauce works with many changes!

Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations

You can easily switch up this mac and cheese recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some yummy substitutes to try:

Pasta:

• Gluten-free pasta
• Whole wheat pasta
• Chickpea or lentil pasta

Cheese:

• Gouda
• Gruyère
• Fontina
• Vegan cheese shreds

Milk/Cream:

• Whole milk
• 2% milk
• Plant-based milk (oat, almond, etc.)

Want to jazz up your mac? Try these tasty add-ins:

• Crispy bacon bits
• Diced jalapeños
• Caramelized onions
• Roasted broccoli florets
• Diced tomatoes

For a protein boost, mix in some cooked chicken, ham, or tuna. You can also bake it with breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Feel free to play around with different spices too. A dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder can really amp up the flavor.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Make your mac and cheese extra creamy by adding a splash of milk when reheating. This brings back that smooth texture.

For a crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs and drizzle melted butter before baking. It adds a nice crunch.

Try different cheese combos! Mix cheddar with gruyere or gouda for unique flavors.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for 3-4 days.

To freeze, portion the mac and cheese into small containers. It’ll keep for up to 3 months.

When reheating frozen mac and cheese, thaw it in the fridge overnight first. Then warm it in the oven or microwave.

Add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

For a healthier twist, mix in some steamed broccoli or peas. It’s a tasty way to sneak in veggies.

Use a good quality sharp cheddar. It gives the best flavor and melts smoothly.

Don’t overcook the pasta. Keep it al dente, as it’ll continue cooking in the sauce.