This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! It’s the kind of dish that’s quick to whip up and always hits the spot on busy days.
Just cook the pasta and mix in cheese for a dish your family will love. Plus, you can sneak in some veggies if you want to feel a little fancy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac and cheese, but feel free to swap it with other pasta shapes like shells, fusilli, or penne. They all hold the cheese sauce well.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives this dish its signature taste. If you’re looking for a milder option, go for medium cheddar or Monterey Jack. You can also mix in some pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use Pecorino Romano or a sprinkled topping of nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest sauce, but you can use 2% or even almond milk. Just be mindful that it might slightly alter the texture and flavor.
How Do I Make the Creamiest Cheese Sauce?
The secret to a creamy cheese sauce is in the roux. A roux is a mixture of fat (butter) and flour that thickens your sauce, giving it that rich, smooth feel. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Melt the butter on medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook it for a bit to cook off the raw taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until there are no lumps. Keep stirring until it thickens and bubbles.
- Add cheese while the mixture is still hot—this helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
Patience is key here! Take your time and your mac and cheese will come out perfectly creamy.
How to Make Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stovetop mac and cheese takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the pasta and about 5 minutes making the cheese sauce. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 7-8 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux:
Next, in a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour, and whisk it constantly. You want to cook this for about 1-2 minutes. This process helps thicken your cheese sauce and cooks out the raw flour taste.
3. Create the Cheese Sauce:
Slowly pour the milk into the roux while continually whisking. This helps prevent lumps in your sauce. Keep cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese into the milk mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. It should be creamy and delicious!
5. Season the Sauce:
Season your cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all of the pasta evenly. The pasta loves to soak up the cheesy goodness!
7. Heat It Through:
Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes just to heat through. Then, it’s ready to serve! You can optionally garnish with a little extra black pepper or more cheese on top for added flavor.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious stovetop mac and cheese immediately and enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Just substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions to ensure it reaches al dente.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary depending on what you choose.
How Can I Add Vegetables?
Great idea! You can easily stir in cooked vegetables like steamed broccoli, spinach, or even roasted bell peppers. Add them just before combining the pasta and cheese sauce for a nutritious boost!