This One Pot Creamy Mac and Cheese Bar is such a fun party idea or great way to jazz up plain old mac and cheese with more veggies!
Step 1 In a large, deep pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add flour, whisking frequently. Add milk 1 cup at a time, whisking to remove lumps and stirring until thickened.
Step 2 Add water, bringing the mixture to an almost boil. Add salt and pepper, then pasta, stirring frequently and cooking for 10-11 min.
Step 3 Meanwhile, fry ground beef and/or bacon until cooked through. Prepare other desired toppings.
Step 4 When pasta is al dente, stir in all four cheeses and mix well. Remove from heat and serve alongside toppings.
Storing and Reheating Store the mac and cheese in individual servings or in one large container – the individual servings will be easier when it comes to reheating. Before refrigerating, let the macaroni and cheese cool down to room temperature and then you place it in the fridge. Like I mentioned above, this dish will last in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing this Recipe Before freezing, make sure the macaroni and cheese has cooled down entirely. Once the macaroni and cheese has cooled down, divide the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags in your desired serving sizes or all together. Place the dish into the freezer and keep for up to 2 months! When you're ready to enjoy your frozen mac and cheese, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then microwave until warm.