This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and super easy to make! With just pasta, cheese, and a few simple ingredients, it comes together in no time.
I love how this dish is not only delicious but also a fun and quick meal to whip up. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you’re just too hungry to wait!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, like shells or rotini. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the dish! For a different flavor, you could use mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. Just remember that softer cheeses melt better.
Milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk or even non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk—though the flavor might slightly change.
Unsalted Butter: You can use margarine or olive oil if you want to reduce saturated fat. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based butter.
All-Purpose Flour: This thickens the sauce, but for a gluten-free option, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead.
How Do I Get a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is key to delicious mac and cheese. Start by making a roux with butter and flour, and cook it for 1-2 minutes. This helps prevent a floury taste. When adding milk, do it slowly while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Whisk until the mixture thickens before adding cheese.
- Use shredded cheese instead of blocks for better melting.
- Stir the cheese in on low heat to keep it smooth.
Keep these tips handy, and you’ll have a creamy sauce every time! Enjoy your stovetop mac and cheese!
Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stovetop mac and cheese takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooking time combined. It’s a quick and satisfying dish, perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux:
In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Keep whisking for 1-2 minutes until it becomes bubbly and slightly golden. This step helps to thicken the cheese sauce later on.
3. Add the Milk:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
4. Stir in the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and add the salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese into the pot. Stir the mixture until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. This is the moment when your mac and cheese starts looking and smelling amazing!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Return the drained macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat all the pasta evenly with that deliciously creamy cheese sauce. Make sure every bit of pasta is covered!
6. Serve It Up:
Dish out the warm mac and cheese into bowls and sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika on top for an extra kick and color, if you like. Enjoy your creamy stovetop mac and cheese right away!
Dig in and enjoy this homemade comfort food classic!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess. Just be sure to choose cheeses that melt well for the best results!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can make a healthier version by using whole grain pasta or adding veggies like spinach or broccoli. You could also use a blend of low-fat cheese and lower fat milk to cut down on calories while still keeping it creamy.
What Should I Do If the Sauce is Too Thick?
If your cheese sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of extra milk or water and stir it in over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help to loosen it up nicely.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to help smooth it out if needed.
