This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
You can’t go wrong with this classic, especially when the cheese is extra melty! I like to add a pinch of pepper for a little kick. Perfect for a cozy night in! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac and cheese due to its shape and texture. You can swap in any small pasta like shells, penne, or fusilli if you prefer a different bite!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavorful kick, while mild cheddar offers a creamier texture. Mixing both creates a well-balanced cheese flavor. Feel free to use all sharp cheddar or even try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda.
Whole Milk: For creaminess, whole milk is best. However, you can use 2% milk or even non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for a lighter option—but this might change the creaminess level slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the salt. If you’re looking to cut back on dairy, you can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
How Do You Make Sure the Cheese Sauce is Smooth?
The key to a creamy cheese sauce is making a good roux first. Start by melting the butter and whisking in the flour until bubbly. This helps thicken the sauce without lumps. When you add the milk, do it slowly and keep whisking to eliminate lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, but don’t overdo it; too much heat can cause the cheese to separate later!
- Heat butter in a pan and mix in flour to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk while whisking to create a smooth mixture.
- Add cheese gradually, mixing until melted and creamy.
Remember to keep the heat low once you add the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy. Enjoy your creamy mac and cheese!
Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese (or use all sharp cheddar if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (plus more for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for subtle heat or color
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stovetop mac and cheese will take about 20 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and cooking the pasta, and about 10 minutes to make the creamy cheese sauce and combine everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
2. Make the Roux:
In a medium to large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. When it’s completely melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk it in. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture bubbles gently and turns a light golden color. This is called a roux!
3. Create the Cheese Sauce:
Now, slowly whisk in the whole milk. It’s important to keep whisking to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly—this should take around 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese:
Lower the heat to keep it gentle, and start adding the shredded sharp and mild cheddar cheeses gradually. Keep stirring until everything is melted and smooth. It should be wonderfully creamy!
5. Season the Sauce:
Add the salt and black pepper to the cheese sauce. If you want a hint of spice or color, feel free to toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika!
6. Combine with Macaroni:
Now, add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the noodles are well-coated with the creamy sauce. This is when it really starts to look and smell amazing!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Once everything is mixed together, remove the saucepan from the heat. Scoop the delicious mac and cheese into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting goodness!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the elbow macaroni with any gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s package instructions, as gluten-free varieties can vary.
How Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Creamier?
If you want an even creamier mac and cheese, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce. You can also mix in some reserved pasta water to help emulsify the sauce and achieve your desired creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein to This Dish?
Yes, you can easily add cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition. For protein, try diced cooked chicken, bacon, or even cooked ground beef. Just mix them in with the mac and cheese after combining the noodles and sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
