Creamy one-pot pasta with cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, ready in 30 minutes for easy comfort food.
# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta
01 - 14 ounces elbow macaroni or short pasta
02 - 5 cups whole milk
03 - 1 cup water
04 - 1 teaspoon salt
→ Dairy & Cheese
05 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
07 - 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Seasonings
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Place elbow macaroni, whole milk, water, and salt in a large pot or Dutch oven. Stir to distribute pasta evenly.
02 - Set over medium heat and bring mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
03 - Reduce heat to low and simmer while stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, about 12 to 15 minutes.
04 - Lower the heat. Add unsalted butter, ground black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until butter is fully melted.
05 - Gradually add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Stir continuously until mixture is creamy and all cheese is melted.
06 - If the mixture is too thick, add additional milk a splash at a time to achieve preferred creamy texture.
07 - Portion immediately and garnish with extra parmesan or fresh herbs, if desired.
