Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Stovetop Mac And Cheese, a quick and easy comfort food that brings warmth to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender pasta with a luscious cheese sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying cravings. Make it your own by adding toppings like crispy bacon or fresh herbs for an extra twist.
This Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the perfect remedy for a long day. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it's a family favorite that never disappoints!
A Quick Comfort Food
Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that is both satisfying and effortless to make. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that will put a smile on your face.
What makes this dish so appealing is its adaptability. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients—be it crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This versatility means you’ll never get bored with your mac and cheese, making it a staple in your household.
Why It's the Perfect Choice
This Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe takes advantage of staple pantry items, making it an affordable and convenient option for anyone. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that rivals what you’d find at a restaurant. Additionally, the creamy cheese sauce provides a rich flavor that's hard to resist.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also an excellent way to introduce children to cooking. They can help measure ingredients and stir the pot. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and encourages them to explore culinary creativity in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful opportunity to bond over food!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Stovetop Mac And Cheese delicious and creamy:
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add any extra toppings you desire!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your creamy Stovetop Mac And Cheese:
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Serve hot and enjoy!
Customize your dish with your favorite toppings before serving!
Add Your Personal Touch
One of the best things about Stovetop Mac And Cheese is its flexibility. While the basic recipe is incredibly tasty on its own, you can easily elevate it by adding various toppings. Consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or diced tomatoes for a hint of freshness. For a spicy kick, jalapeños or hot sauce can be excellent choices.
You can also experiment with different cheeses. While sharp cheddar is a classic option, mixing in mozzarella or gouda can provide a creamy texture and unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish truly your own.
Serving Suggestions
Stovetop Mac And Cheese serves beautifully as a main dish or as a hearty side. Pair it with a fresh side salad to balance the richness, or serve it alongside grilled chicken or vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also a fantastic dish to make for potlucks or family gatherings, where it often disappears quickly.
For those who love a bit of crunch, consider topping your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking it in the oven for a few minutes. This adds a delightful texture contrast and turns your stovetop classic into a baked masterpiece!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time. Just reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
→ What types of cheese can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.
Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Stovetop Mac And Cheese, a quick and easy comfort food that brings warmth to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender pasta with a luscious cheese sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying cravings. Make it your own by adding toppings like crispy bacon or fresh herbs for an extra twist.
Created by: Rebecca Mills
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g