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–+ servings
A bowl of creamy orecchiette pasta covered in cheese sauce and black pepper, a simple easy dinner recipe.

How to Make Easy Dinner Recipes Like a Pro (2025)

This recipe simplifies mac and cheese using milk instead of water for a creamier result. It is a quick option for busy families looking for satisfying, simple meals.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 694
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound orecchiette
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
  • 3 cups cheddar cheese grated

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, bring the orecchiette, milk, salt and pepper to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Boil, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced and thickened to a sauce-like consistency and the pasta is tender, 14 to 16 minutes. The pasta takes longer to cook than the package recommends because you start with cold milk rather than boiling water.
  3. Stir in the butter, cream cheese and cheddar cheese, mixing until they are melted and incorporated. As you stir, the sauce will become creamier. Spoon into bowls and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 694kcalCarbohydrates: 66gProtein: 29gFat: 35gSugar: 11g

Notes

When my family needed fast, flavorful meals, I found that simple ingredient swaps made a big difference. Using milk instead of water for cooking pasta creates a built-in creamy sauce base, saving you time later. This method helps busy parents serve satisfying food without extra effort.

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