This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! It’s super quick to make, perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty in a hurry.
I love how the cheese melts right into the pasta, making every bite smooth and delicious. Plus, you can add fun toppings like bacon or veggies to mix it up! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac and cheese, but feel free to use other pasta types like shells, cavatappi, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Whole Milk: Whole milk makes this dish extra creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use 2% milk or even unsweetened almond milk, although the final texture may vary.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for its bold flavor. If you want to mix things up, try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick.
Gruyère Cheese: This cheese adds a wonderful creaminess. If you can’t find Gruyère, a combination of Swiss and mozzarella works nicely too.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping, panko is best. You can also use regular breadcrumbs or skip this step altogether for a purely creamy experience!
How Do I Make the Cheese Sauce Creamy Without Lumps?
A common hiccup in making cheese sauce is lumps. To keep your sauce silky smooth, follow these tips:
- Make sure to whisk the butter and flour together well before adding the milk. This forms a roux that helps thicken your sauce.
- When adding milk, do it slowly while continually whisking. This prevents lumps from forming as the temperature changes.
- Stir constantly as the sauce thickens. If you stop whisking, lumps can sneak in.
With a little patience and attention, you’ll end up with a deliciously creamy mac and cheese that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking! 🧀
How to Make Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional for extra creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (optional for warmth and color)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, if you like a crunchy topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stovetop mac and cheese can be prepared in about 20 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and making the cheese sauce, followed by about 5 minutes for combining everything. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux:
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes while constantly whisking until it becomes bubbly and slightly golden. This step helps remove the raw flour taste.
3. Create the Cheese Sauce:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring as you cook the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Lower the heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you love cheese, feel free to add more!
5. Season Your Sauce:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you enjoy a bit of spice, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Taste your cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Return the drained macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir everything well to ensure that each piece of pasta is nicely coated in the creamy goodness.
7. Optional Crunch:
If you want a crunchy topping, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Allow them to toast slightly in the heat of the pot or in a dry pan. This adds a delightful texture contrast!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your creamy mac and cheese hot! Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an added touch of flavor and color. Enjoy your cozy, homemade meal!
This stovetop mac and cheese is truly comfort food at its finest. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite! 🧀
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as shells, cavatappi, or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, try cashew cheese or nutritional yeast to get that cheesy taste without the dairy!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
For a spicier kick, you can add jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even sriracha to the cheese sauce. Just start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference. Enjoy the heat!
