Easiest Velveeta Mac n Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Velveeta Mac n Cheese recipe is a quick and comforting classic that anyone can make. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have creamy, cheesy pasta ready in minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want an easy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- ½ lb. Velveeta
- 2 cups (8 oz.) elbow macaroni
- 2 Tbsp. butter, melted
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove the Velveeta from the fridge and cut it into small cubes. Let it sit at room temperature while you cook the pasta.
- Step 2: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Just before draining, scoop out 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside. Drain the rest of the water and return the pasta to the pot.
- Step 3: Add the melted butter to the hot pasta and stir well to combine.
- Step 4: Add the cubed Velveeta to the pasta and stir for about 30 seconds to start melting the cheese. Slowly drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water while stirring.
- Step 5: Continue stirring until the Velveeta fully melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce. Add small amounts of the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency, about 1-2 minutes total.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, stir in a pinch of black pepper or a dash of garlic powder.
- Try adding cooked bacon bits or steamed vegetables like broccoli for a heartier dish.
- If Velveeta is unavailable, substitute with processed cheese or a mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like shells, rotini, or penne works well in this recipe and holds the cheesy sauce nicely.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the mac and cheese sauce separately and reheat it when the pasta is cooked, then combine both just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.
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Easiest Velveeta Mac n Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easiest Velveeta Mac n Cheese recipe delivers creamy, cheesy comfort food in just minutes. Featuring tender elbow macaroni and smooth melted Velveeta cheese, combined with butter and a touch of pasta water, this simple stovetop dish is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ lb. Velveeta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 cups (8 oz.) elbow macaroni
- 2 Tbsp. butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese: Take the Velveeta out of the fridge and cut it into small cubes. Leave the cubes at room temperature to soften while you cook the pasta.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Just before draining, scoop out 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside. Then drain the rest of the water from the pasta and return the macaroni to the pot.
- Add Butter: Immediately pour the melted butter over the hot pasta and stir gently to coat the noodles evenly.
- Start Melting Cheese: Add the cubed Velveeta to the pasta and stir continuously for about 30 seconds to begin melting the cheese. Then drizzle in approximately 2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and stir to combine.
- Finish Cheese Sauce: Continue stirring until the Velveeta is completely melted—this will take 1 to 2 minutes. Add a little more pasta water if necessary to create a smooth, creamy sauce that evenly coats the macaroni.
Notes
- Saving some pasta water helps create a creamy sauce without adding extra milk or cream.
- Cutting the Velveeta into small cubes speeds up melting considerably.
- For a more robust flavor, you can add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of garlic powder if desired.
- Serve immediately for the best creamy texture, as the cheese sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Velveeta mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, quick cheesy pasta, comfort food
