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 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that's quick and easy to make. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:40:53.773Z

This Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor. It's the ultimate comfort food, bringing back memories of childhood dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick and easy for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite add-ins

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that evokes warm memories of childhood. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. This dish is not just about the satisfaction of a delicious meal; it’s also about the joy of sharing it with family and friends. Whether it's a rainy day or a cozy evening at home, this mac and cheese brings a sense of comfort that is hard to resist.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences. From adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritional boost to incorporating proteins like chicken or bacon, the possibilities are endless. Each variation retains the beloved creaminess while allowing you to personalize your version of this classic dish.

Quick and Easy Preparation

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a meal that can be prepared quickly without sacrificing flavor is a game changer. This Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The steps are straightforward, requiring only basic cooking skills and common kitchen ingredients. This means you can whip up a delicious dinner even on the most hectic evenings.

Moreover, the one-pot method simplifies cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of washing multiple dishes. With just a pot to manage, you can focus on indulging in your creamy, cheesy creation. It’s a practical solution that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle without compromising on taste or quality.

Endless Customization

One of the joys of making Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ability to customize it to your liking. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, jalapeños, or even smoked paprika can elevate your dish and introduce exciting new flavors.

For those looking to boost the nutrition of their meal, consider folding in cooked vegetables or using whole grain pasta. This not only enhances the dish but also makes it a more balanced meal. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to be creative in the kitchen, ensuring that every bite is tailored to your personal taste.

Ingredients

Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top for added texture!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow 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 cook for about 1 minute until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue stirring until the mixture thickens.

Add Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious homemade stovetop mac and cheese!

Serving Suggestions

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is delightful on its own, but serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables can create a well-rounded meal. A light Caesar salad or roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with the richness of the mac and cheese, adding a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or burgers for a satisfying family feast.

For those hosting gatherings, consider using this dish as a base for a mac and cheese bar. Set out an array of toppings like crispy bacon, diced tomatoes, or even truffle oil, allowing guests to customize their bowls to their liking. This interactive approach adds fun to your meal and caters to diverse tastes.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, Stovetop Mac And Cheese stores quite well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess, as the pasta tends to absorb the sauce over time.

For longer storage, consider freezing the mac and cheese. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal that tastes just as good as when it was freshly made.

Nutritional Information

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a delicious indulgence, but it's also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. A standard serving provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein, thanks to the pasta and cheese. However, the calorie count can rise quickly depending on the amount of cheese and butter used. For a healthier version, consider using low-fat cheese or incorporating whole grain pasta.

Additionally, by adding vegetables or lean proteins, you can enhance the nutritional profile of your meal. This way, you can enjoy the creamy goodness while still adhering to your dietary goals. Always feel free to adjust ingredient portions to suit your needs without losing the essence of this beloved dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.

→ Can I make this mac and cheese in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Try adding cooked chicken, broccoli, or spices like cayenne pepper for a kick!