Dinner, Kid-Friendly, Lunch

One Pan Mac and Cheese

  • Prep 10 mins
  • Total 20 mins
  • Easy
  • Serves 4

This one pan mac and cheese is a delicious and easy weeknight meal your kids will love!

Allergies

  • Contains Milk/Dairy

Tip: Allergy Advice

This dish contains the following allergens: Milk/Dairy

Cooking mode

Step-by-step instruction without your screen going to sleep

  • 16 ounces dried penne pasta
  • 2-3 cups warm water
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, divided
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 ounce cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup panko style breadcrumbs

Utensils

  • Small Bowl
  • Rubber Spatula
  • Step 1

    Place pasta in Ninja 10” Fry Pan and add water until the pasta is just covered. Bring up to a rolling boil on medium-high heat. 

  • Step 2

    Cook pasta until 80% of the water has been absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently. 

  • Step 3

    Make a small well in the middle of the pan and place 2 tablespoons of butter. When butter is melted, add flour and whisk until combined. 

  • Step 4

    While whisking, slowly add the milk to the pasta. Once all milk is added in, whisk in cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, ¾ cup cheddar cheese, salt and pepper. 

  • Step 5

    Using rubber spatula, mix well to coat pasta in sauce. Remove from heat. 

  • Step 6

    Sprinkle ¼ cup cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese over pasta. In a bowl, combine remaining tablespoon of butter and bread crumbs until butter is evenly distributed. Sprinkle over top cheese. 

  • Step 7

    Turn oven on to Broil High, and broil pasta for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve from pan.