Easiest 3-Ingredient Mac & Cheese

Easiest 3-Ingredient Mac & Cheese – The Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of mac and cheese. Whether you need a quick lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or a satisfying side dish, this Easiest 3-Ingredient Mac & Cheese is the perfect choice. Not only is it rich and cheesy, but it also comes together in just minutes. Even better, you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated steps.

Why This Recipe Works
Mac and cheese is already a classic, but this version makes it even easier. With just pasta, cheese, and milk, you get a perfectly creamy dish with minimal effort. Plus, it’s easy to customize! If you want more flavor, add a pinch of black pepper, paprika, or garlic powder. For extra protein, stir in grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or even sautéed mushrooms. No matter how you make it, the result is always delicious.

Perfect for Any Occasion
This recipe is ideal for busy days when you need something fast yet homemade. It’s also a fantastic side dish for BBQs, holiday dinners, or casual gatherings. Since it’s made with simple pantry staples, you probably already have everything you need.

What Makes It Special?
Unlike boxed versions, this homemade mac and cheese is free of artificial ingredients—just real, simple flavors. More importantly, it’s completely foolproof. Because the cheese melts directly into the milk, it creates a silky, smooth sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

Ready to Make It?
If you love easy comfort food, this 3-ingredient mac and cheese recipe will quickly become your go-to. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a side, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s get cooking!

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS
16 oz elbow macaroni
3 ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
3 cup whole milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well, then return the pasta to the warm pot.

2. Melt the cheese: Immediately add the shredded white cheddar cheese to the hot pasta, stirring until it begins to melt. The residual heat helps the cheese soften evenly.

3. Make it creamy: Pour in 2 ¾ cups of whole milk, stirring constantly over low heat until the cheese melts and coats the pasta in a smooth, velvety sauce. If needed, add the remaining ¼ cup milk gradually to adjust the consistency to your preference.

4. Serve warm: Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture. If desired, season with a pinch of salt or black pepper.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese for the Best Melt
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest mac and cheese, shred your own sharp cheddar cheese from a block. It melts more evenly and creates a richer, silkier sauce.
Adjust Milk for Your Ideal Creaminess
If you prefer extra creamy mac and cheese, add an additional splash of milk until you reach the perfect consistency. Whole milk works best for a rich, velvety sauce, but for a lighter option, you can use 2% milk while still maintaining smoothness.
Stir Constantly to Prevent Clumping
Keeping the heat low and stirring continuously ensures the cheese melts evenly into the milk, preventing a grainy texture. If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a little more warm milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

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