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Once your pasta is perfectly cooked and drained, it's time to bring all the elements together. Begin by adding the cooked pasta to your cheese sauce. It’s crucial to ensure that the pasta is completely coated with the cheese mixture to achieve that creamy, indulgent consistency. Use a large spatula or wooden spoon, gently folding the pasta into the sauce. This method helps avoid breaking the pasta and ensures even coverage of the cheesy goodness.

One-Pot School Lunch Mac and Cheese

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Delight Mac & Cheese, a creamy twist on a classic favorite. This recipe emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients for a rich and flavorful experience. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and mozzarella. With endless customization options for toppings and seasonings, this dish is sure to delight family and friends, evoking warm memories with every bite. Create a comforting masterpiece that elevates your mac and cheese game to new heights!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup whole milk

2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional toppings: chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, or crispy bacon bits

Instructions
 

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the elbow macaroni and vegetable broth. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed in the liquid.

    Seasoning: Add the whole milk, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

      Cook Pasta: Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

        Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the macaroni is creamy.

          Serve: If desired, sprinkle optional toppings such as chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, or crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy mac and cheese!

            Store Leftovers: If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk for creaminess.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | Serves 4-6