Name: One Pot Macaroni and Cheese by Consumer Reports
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 serving(s)
Ingredients: 2 cups water; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup elbow macaroni; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons margarine (or butter); 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 pinch paprika; 1 pinch white pepper; 1 pinch cayenne

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Recipe by Barbara in Alexandr

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One Pot Macaroni and Cheese by Consumer Reports created by FrenchBunny

Years and years ago, CR reviewed boxed M&C products and came to the conclusion that this recipe was much less expensive and easy. I have used it exclusively since the 70's, shared it with friends, and can tell you it is the best I have ever had. Of course, the prices are from about 30 years ago :)

Ready In:: 20mins
Serves:
Units:

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ingredients

2 cups water
¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
2 tablespoons margarine (or butter)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 pinch paprika
1 pinch white pepper
1 pinch cayenne

directions

Using a two-quart saucepan, bring salted water to a boil. Stir in the macaroni and return the water to a boil.
Stirring occasionally, continue boiling for four minutes.
Then lower the heat to medium and continue to boil the macaroni with frequent stirring for seven more minutes. (You may need to reduce the heat to its lowest setting for the last two minutes to prevent sticking.)
Add the remainder of the ingredients, stirring well until the cheese is melted. (Total cost per serving: 45 cents.).
To modify and reduce saturated fat and salt, eliminate the salt, substitute low-cholesterol cheese and skim milk for the cheddar and the cream and add two teaspoons of fried onions (one small onion, chopped finely and fried in one teaspoon of canola oil in the pasta pot before you cook the pasta, then set the onion aside and add last to the above recipe). (Total cost per serving: 48 cents.).

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RECIPE MADE WITH LOVE BY

@Barbara in Alexandr

"Years and years ago, CR reviewed boxed M&C products and came to the conclusion that this recipe was much less expensive and easy. I have used it exclusively since the 70's, shared it with friends, and can tell you it is the best I have ever had. Of course, the prices are from about 30 years ago :)"

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review by lisa w.

9/4/2018

I just made this to go with leftover, ribs. I substituted medium shells, for the elbows, sour cream for the cream. I boiled the shells, in water with a tablespoon of knor's chicken powder, garlic powder, white pepper, black pepper, and a little oregano. Absolutely delish, and I love that it is just 2 servings. Will make again, for sure! thanks, for sharing.

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question by Ed H.

9/2/2018

Do you drain the water?

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review by Wootforfood

4/10/2018

Simple but delicious! I replaced paprika and cayenne with chopped jalapeños. Added some Parmesan cheese and more salt and pepper because it was a little bland.

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review by Mrs. TK

7/19/2012

Not a fan. I found this to be runny, bland, and not at all creamy.

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review by LonghornMama

3/10/2012

Fun and the kids really enjoyed it! I usually make mac and cheese with butter/flour, milk, cheese, etc. This was very easy, and not as heavy as our usual, but with lots of cheesy goodness. The pot was a bear to clean, next time I'll use one of my hard anodized pans to make clean up easier. I agree with Consumer Reports, much better than the nasty overpriced boxed version. Thanks for sharing the recipe!

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