A rich, cheesy, and comforting meal—all made in one pot!
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Construction (How to Make It)
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Add Liquids and Pasta:
- Pour in marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Stir in elbow macaroni and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Variations
- Crispy Topping: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or extra Parmesan on top and broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Creamier Version: Swap heavy cream for cream cheese or ricotta.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
Tips for the Best One-Pot Mac & Cheese
- Stir Frequently: Prevents pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjust Liquid: Add more broth or cream if the sauce gets too thick.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
- Let It Rest: Let the dish sit for 2-3 minutes before serving to thicken up.
Would you like recommendations for sides or drinks to pair with this?