This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy and cheesy goodness, made in just one pot! It’s super quick, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
You won’t believe how easy it is! Just boil, stir, and enjoy. No baking required—which means less fuss and more fun with each cheesy bite. 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac and cheese. If you’re looking for a fun alternative, try shells or cavatappi for something different. Gluten-free pasta also works well if you’re avoiding wheat.
Whole Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can use 2% milk or even unsweetened almond milk if you prefer a lighter option. For a richer flavor, heavy cream is an excellent choice!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a wonderful tangy flavor. If it’s not available, feel free to mix in mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Grate your cheese from a block for better melting.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best because it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can substitute it with olive oil, or for a dairy-free version, use vegan butter.
How Do I Make the Cheese Sauce Extra Creamy?
Creating a perfectly creamy cheese sauce is key in making a delightful mac and cheese. Here’s how to achieve that smooth texture:
- Add your butter after cooking the pasta while it’s still warm. This helps it melt easily.
- When pouring in the milk, turn down the heat to medium-low to prevent it from boiling, which can make the sauce grainy.
- Gradually add the cheese a handful at a time while stirring. This ensures that each addition melts smoothly into the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of additional milk to reach your desired consistency.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious, creamy stovetop mac and cheese that everyone will love!
Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups water
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup whole milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stovetop mac and cheese recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes preparing the creamy cheese sauce. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
First, grab a large skillet or saucepan and bring 2 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 6-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente. You want it to be cooked but still firm to the bite! By the end of cooking, most of the water will have absorbed, but a little should remain. If it seems too dry, just add a splash of milk.
2. Add Butter and Milk:
Next, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the unsalted butter to the pasta and stir until it melts completely. Then, pour in the whole milk (or cream if you’re feeling indulgent) and mix until combined.
3. Mix in the Cheese:
Now comes the cheesy part! Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously as you go. Keep mixing until all the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This magical moment is where your delicious cheese sauce comes to life!
4. Season the Sauce:
To elevate the flavor, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Cooking for another 1-2 minutes on low heat helps meld everything together beautifully.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your mac and cheese with a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika and chopped fresh parsley, if you’d like. Serve hot, and get ready to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness that you’ve just made!
This stovetop mac and cheese is a quick, comforting treat that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can mix it up with cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda. For a little kick, try adding some pepper jack cheese!
How to Make It Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, and replace the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option?
Definitely! Just use gluten-free elbow macaroni to make a delicious gluten-free version of this mac and cheese. The cooking process remains the same!
