Stovetop Mac And Cheese

Name: Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a quick and creamy comfort food that the whole family will love.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:18:33.417Z

This creamy Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's quick to prepare and utterly satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, cheesy flavor that satisfies cravings
Creamy texture that clings to every macaroni
Quick and easy recipe for busy days

      

A Quick and Easy Meal

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ideal solution for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for families on the go. The simplicity of this dish doesn’t compromise on flavor, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will be coming back for seconds.

With just one pot required, cleanup is a breeze. You can focus on enjoying your meal rather than worrying about a pile of dishes waiting to be washed. This makes it not only a time-saver for cooking but also a convenient option for those who wish to spend more time with their loved ones around the dinner table.

Customizing Your Mac and Cheese

One of the best things about Stovetop Mac And Cheese is its versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding cooked, crumbled bacon or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutrition boost. You can even experiment with different types of cheese such as gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack to create your own unique flavor profile.

If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, try swapping out regular elbow macaroni for whole-grain or gluten-free pasta. You can also use low-fat milk and cheese without sacrificing the creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is not just a quick weeknight meal; it’s also a fantastic option for gatherings and potlucks. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is sure to please a crowd, and you can easily scale the recipe up or down to fit your needs. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main course topped with crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.

Whether it's a cozy family dinner, a game day snack, or a comforting treat on a chilly evening, this mac and cheese recipe is sure to be a hit. Everyone loves a classic, and this version delivers all the flavors and comfort without the fuss.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon mustard powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match cheeses for a unique flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and mustard powder, cooking for about 1 minute until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.

Combine

Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Then, add the cooked macaroni back into the pot and mix until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately for the best creamy texture!

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Stovetop Mac And Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk and warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. This will help restore the creamy consistency that makes this dish so delightful.

For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement your Stovetop Mac And Cheese, consider serving it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A simple side of sautéed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts can add a nice contrast to the creamy dish, making your meal more balanced and satisfying.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, a crisp white wine or a light lager can be a perfect pairing. The acidity in the wine can cut through the richness of the cheese, while the beer offers a refreshing finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour for the sauce.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and mix with cooked pasta.

→ What can I add to this recipe for more nutrition?

You can add cooked vegetables such as broccoli or spinach to boost the nutritional value.