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The Ultimate Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you’re looking for that perfect blend of cozy, creamy, and undeniably comforting, then you’ve hit the jackpot. This stovetop mac and cheese isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, designed to bring a smile to your face. It’s incredibly quick to make and delivers a rich, cheesy, and nostalgic flavor that’s hard to beat.
Whether you’re whipping up a meal for the whole family on a busy weeknight, adding a classic side to your holiday spread, or simply craving a delicious bowl of comfort just for yourself, this dish is always a guaranteed hit. Get ready to dive into a timeless favorite, complete with easy step-by-step instructions and fun ways to customize it to your heart’s content!
Key Takeaways
- Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes using pantry staples.
- Rich and creamy: A velvety cheese sauce coats every bite.
- Better than boxed: Homemade flavor with no artificial ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or hearty side.
- Customizable: Add protein, veggies, or spices for your own twist!
What Is Stovetop Mac and Cheese?
Stovetop mac and cheese is a creamy pasta dish made with cooked macaroni and a smooth cheese sauce—all made on the stovetop, no baking required. It’s a homemade alternative to the boxed version, bursting with real flavor and customizable ingredients.
Did you know? Thomas Jefferson is often credited with popularizing mac and cheese in America during the 18th century!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this stovetop classic:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni | 8 oz |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Whole Milk | 2 cups |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black Pepper | ¼ tsp |
✅ Tip: Shred your own cheese for the creamiest results. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to make a roux.
3. Add the Milk
Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Add the Cheese
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine
Add drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk.
Serve warm and enjoy your ultra-creamy stovetop mac and cheese!
Customization Ideas
Take your mac and cheese to the next level with these tasty add-ins:
Protein
- Crispy bacon
- Grilled chicken
- Ham or turkey
Veggies
- Roasted broccoli
- Spinach
- Diced tomatoes
Spices
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne for a spicy kick
Cheese Varieties
- Gruyère
- Fontina
- Parmesan
- Gouda
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture.
You can even use leftovers in:
- Mac and cheese casseroles
- Stuffed peppers
- Fried mac and cheese bites
Serving Suggestions
Stovetop mac and cheese is delicious on its own or served as a side with:
- BBQ pulled pork
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh green salad
Hosting a party or potluck? This dish scales beautifully for a crowd.
Quick & Easy: It’s fast to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Comfort Food: Warm, creamy, and cheesy – deeply satisfying.
Kid-Friendly: Most children love pasta and cheese.
Versatile: Easy to customize with different cheeses or add-ins.
Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples.
Nostalgic: Often brings back fond childhood memories.
Common Mistakes:
- Overcooking pasta: Leads to mushy noodles.
- Too much heat: Can curdle cheese sauce.
- Adding cold cheese: Makes sauce lumpy.
- Not enough liquid: Results in dry mac and cheese.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: Often contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting.
- Not salting pasta water: Bland pasta.
FAQs:
How do I thicken the sauce? Cook longer, or add a cornstarch slurry
Why is my cheese sauce lumpy? Often from cold cheese or too high heat.
Can I use milk instead of cream? Yes, but cream makes it richer.
How do I prevent sticky pasta? Salt water well and stir often.
Can I make it ahead? Best fresh, but can be reheated with a splash of milk.
What cheese is best? Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or a blend.
Printable Recipe Card
Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Simmer until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheese until smooth.
- Add pasta to sauce, stir well. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins
