This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy and super comforting. With just a few simple ingredients like pasta and cheese, it comes together quickly!
I love how you don’t need to bake it. It’s ready in no time, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, I could eat this cheesy goodness every day! 🧀
Ingredients & Substitutions
Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can use any short pasta like cavatappi or shells. They hold the cheese sauce well!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but mild cheddar or a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda works too. Feel free to experiment!
Milk: Whole milk gives creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk or even non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, though it may alter the texture a bit.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for controlling saltiness, but if you’re in a pinch, salted butter can work. Just reduce extra salt.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for thickening. If you’re gluten-free, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour as a substitute, just adjust the amount accordingly.
How Do You Create a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be a bit tricky, but with these steps, you can avoid clumps!
- Start with a roux: Melt the butter and whisk in flour. Stir constantly for a couple of minutes until it bubbles gently.
- Add milk gradually: Pour the milk in slowly while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir continuously until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Heat on low: Once thickened, remove from heat before adding cheese. This prevents the cheese from clumping as it melts.
- Add cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Taking your time with these steps will ensure you get a deliciously smooth cheese sauce every time!
Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp dried herbs like basil or thyme (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stovetop mac and cheese takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Roux:
In the same pot or a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes, until the roux is lightly golden and bubbly.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring and cook this mixture for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time to reduce the heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the thickened milk mixture. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce:
Next, add the cooked elbow macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy. If you want to spice things up, taste and adjust the salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your creamy, cheesy stovetop mac and cheese immediately. For a bit of extra flavor and a lovely presentation, consider garnishing with a light sprinkle of smoked paprika and dried herbs like basil or thyme if you’d like!
Enjoy your comfort food classic that’s ready in no time! 🧀
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just cook it according to the package instructions, and the recipe will work the same!
How Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Extra Creamy?
For an ultra-creamy texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a scoop of cream cheese along with the cheddar. Using a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can also enhance creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and stir gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta. Adding a little milk during reheating can help achieve that creamy consistency again!