Description
Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese is a quick and easy comfort food classic featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Made entirely on the stovetop in under 30 minutes, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and delivers a perfectly smooth, cheesy dish ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a warm, indulgent meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Sauce Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
Cheese and Seasoning
- 2 cups sharp or mild cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente—about 7-8 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the pasta because it will continue to soften once mixed with the sauce. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. Keep whisking steadily for about 2 minutes until the mixture forms a smooth paste and starts bubbling, which cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk and Thicken the Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking over medium heat while stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, usually around 5-7 minutes.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and add in your grated cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until fully melted and silky smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot and stir thoroughly to coat every piece with the indulgently creamy cheese sauce. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melt and creaminess; avoid pre-shredded cheese due to additives.
- Do not skip making the roux to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth sauce.
- Melt cheese slowly on low heat to avoid grainy or oily texture.
- Season gradually and taste as you go for balanced flavor.
- Best served immediately to maintain gooey, creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg