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 butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Collection

Enjoy the creamy and cheesy goodness of Stovetop Mac And Cheese, a quick and easy comfort food classic.

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2025-12-23T17:42:37.265Z

This Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a family favorite that brings back childhood memories. It's creamy, cheesy, and comes together in just under 30 minutes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, cheesy flavor that satisfies every craving.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like bacon or vegetables.

The Comfort of Homemade Mac and Cheese

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of homemade mac and cheese. This Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe captures the essence of classic comfort food without the fuss of baking. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, making it the perfect meal for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to hit the spot.

Unlike boxed versions, making mac and cheese from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. With just a few simple components, you can whip up a delicious meal that not only tastes better but is also free from preservatives and artificial flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to impress family and friends with your cooking skills!

Endless Customization Options

One of the best things about Stovetop Mac And Cheese is its versatility. While the recipe provides a rich and cheesy base, feel free to customize it according to your taste. Add cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, or toss in steamed broccoli for a healthy twist. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to create a dish that suits everyone’s preferences.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different types of cheese. Sharp cheddar, creamy gouda, or even a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate your mac and cheese experience. You can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick. The ability to make this dish your own is what makes it a favorite in many households.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is not only quick to prepare but also fantastic for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week. Just portion it out into containers and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, a quick reheat in the microwave will have you enjoying a homemade meal in no time.

Additionally, this dish can easily be frozen for longer storage. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a great option for busy days or unexpected guests!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix-ins!

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 lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Reduce heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and mix well to coat.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy stovetop mac and cheese!

Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for added texture!

Pro Tips

For a gourmet touch, add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the mix.

Tips for the Best Stovetop Mac And Cheese

To achieve the ultimate creamy texture in your Stovetop Mac And Cheese, be sure to add the cheese gradually. This allows it to melt evenly and prevents clumping. Stir constantly while adding the cheese to ensure a smooth, velvety sauce. A mix of cheeses can enhance flavor and texture, so consider blending different varieties for a gourmet touch.

Another helpful tip is to avoid overcooking the pasta. Cooking it al dente ensures that it retains a slight bite, which complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot cheese sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Stovetop Mac And Cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. The crispness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the rich mac and cheese, enhancing the dining experience.

For a bit of crunch, top your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving. This adds texture and an additional layer of flavor, elevating your dish from simple to sensational. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Stovetop Mac And Cheese, storing it properly is key to maintaining its creamy goodness. Allow it to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, ensuring that it retains its delicious creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and just combine it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even hot sauce for a kick!