Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni Recipe

Get ready to dive fork-first into this creamy and cheesy skillet macaroni—your new weeknight dinner hero! It’s gooey, it’s dreamy, and it comes together in just one pan. We’re talking ultra-rich cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a golden, bubbly finish that’ll make you wanna lick the skillet clean. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some cozy comfort, this dish is the perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity. This one’s for all the Me As Food daydreamers and Food That Looks Good fans out there.

If you’re into cozy, creamy vibes, don’t miss our Creamy Cheeseburger Soup Crockpot—it’s another delicious, dreamy dinner idea!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-skillet magic means less cleanup (yes, please!)
• Silky, ultra-cheesy sauce that clings to every noodle
• Ready in under 30 minutes—weeknight win!
• Customizable with your fave add-ins
• Kid-approved and adult-adored
• It’s pure Yummy Aesthetic Food—seriously, it’s that good

Recipe Snapshot

Feature	Details
Category	Dinner
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes
Servings	4-6
Method	Stovetop (skillet)

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: Classic shape that holds the cheesy sauce like a champ.
• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps start the roux.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens our dreamy cheese sauce.
• Milk: Go full-fat for maximum creaminess.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty—the main cheesy star.
• Mozzarella cheese: Brings that stretch factor and mild flavor.
• Cream cheese: Gives the sauce its silky, luscious texture.
• Garlic powder + onion powder: Flavor boosters that keep it simple.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the richness.

Check out the printable recipe card below for exact measurements and instructions!

How to Make Creamy and Cheesy Skillet Macaroni

Cook the Macaroni

Boil the elbow pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Roux

In a large oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Build the Sauce

Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.

Add the Cheeses

Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until completely melted and velvety. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine with Pasta

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is coated. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Optional Broil Finish

Pop the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.

Pro Tips for Perfect Macaroni

• Don’t overcook the pasta—it’ll keep cooking in the sauce.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.
• Add a splash more milk if the sauce gets too thick.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese for flair.

Flavor Variations

• Stir in cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty twist.
• Mix in steamed broccoli or peas for some green goodness.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a new flavor spin.

Serving Suggestions

Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. Or serve as a side to grilled chicken, ribs, or BBQ. It’s one of those Nice Meals that hits just right.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can make the cheese sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Great for those Food Options days when you want easy comfort.

Freezing

Freeze cooled macaroni in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Shells, rotini, or penne all work beautifully. This one’s a Yummy Yummy Food no matter what.

Is it okay to skip the broiler step?
Totally. It just adds a golden top, but the mac is delicious without it.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

What’s the best cheese combo?
Sharp cheddar for flavor + mozzarella for meltiness is a win. Add gouda or fontina for extra flair.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a big skillet of creamy, cheesy macaroni. It brings people together, soothes the soul, and honestly? It’s just dang delicious. Whether you’re serving it up on a busy weeknight or dishing it out at a cozy gathering, this creamy and cheesy skillet macaroni is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s 100% My Favorite Food material—and yes, it’s worthy of all the Photos Of Food love. Trust me, you’re gonna love this one!