Save A rich, ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese made on the stovetop for the ultimate cozy comfort food, featuring a velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta.
This creamy stove-top mac and cheese has been a family favorite for years, always bringing comfort and smiles to the dinner table.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk warmed, 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese grated, 60 g (2 oz) Gruyère or mozzarella cheese grated, 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, 1 tbsp toasted breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly, until the mixture is bubbling but not browned.
- Step 3:
- Gradually pour in the warmed milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Step 4:
- Reduce heat to low. Add the grated cheddar and Gruyère (or mozzarella) cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chives and toasted breadcrumbs if desired.
Save Sharing this mac and cheese with my family always fills our home with warmth and happiness.
Optional Variations
Try mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
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This creamy stove-top mac and cheese is the perfect comfort dish to satisfy cheesy cravings in no time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well, but small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi also work.
- → How can I make the cheese sauce extra creamy?
Replace half the milk with heavy cream for a richer, silkier sauce texture.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can make the cheese sauce in advance and heat gently with cooked pasta, stirring to maintain creaminess.
- → What variations enhance the flavor?
Adding sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, or steamed broccoli introduces extra flavor and texture contrasts.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crunchy.