Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese is a classic comfort food that everyone loves. It’s creamy, cheesy, and super easy to make. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something warm and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a tasty meal in no time!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese is a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a homemade meal. You can control the flavors and cheese types to suit your taste. Plus, it requires minimal cooking skills, making it ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a fast recipe. Instead of reaching for the box, try this homemade version that’s better and healthier!
How to Make Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 50 g / 3 1/2 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk (full fat preferred but low fat is ok)
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 250 g / 2 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 1/2 cups cheese (Cheddar, Colby, Gruyere) (shredded, Note 1)
- Salt and pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
Directions
- Melt the butter in a medium pot or large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in about 3/4 cup of milk and mix it into the butter mixture. It will become a slurry quickly.
- Add the remaining milk and mix well. Then, add the water and the seasonings.
- Add the macaroni and mix everything together. Stir occasionally as it heats up.
- When you see wisps of steam, lower the heat to medium-low.
- Stir regularly and cook for 9 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the macaroni is just cooked. It should be tender but still firm.
- Remove it from the stove, stir in the cheese quickly, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. The sauce will thicken at this step.
- Serve immediately!
How to Serve Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
You can serve Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese warm in a bowl. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal. Feel free to sprinkle some extra cheese or herbs on top for a bit of flair!
How to Store Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
To store leftovers, let the macaroni cool down completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess.
Tips to Make Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
- For extra creaminess, use a combination of cheeses.
- Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas for nutritional value.
- Adjust the seasonings to match your taste. A little cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
Variation (if any)
You can customize this recipe easily. Try adding cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for added protein. You can also swap out the cheese for your favorites, like pepper jack for a spicy twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! You can easily substitute gluten-free elbow macaroni in this recipe.
2. How can I make my mac and cheese extra cheesy?
Consider adding more cheese than the recipe suggests or using a mix of different cheeses for richer flavor.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe without milk?
You can replace the milk with chicken or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile, but it will be less creamy.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese!
Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 50 g 50 g / 3 1/2 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups 2 cups milk (full fat preferred but low fat is ok) Use full fat for creaminess.
- 2.5 cups 2 1/2 cups water
- 250 g 250 g / 2 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- ¾ cup 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups cheese (Cheddar, Colby, Gruyere) (shredded) Use a mix for best flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp 1/2 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper To taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt the butter in a medium pot or large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in about 3/4 cup of milk and mix it into the butter mixture until it becomes a slurry.
- Add the remaining milk, mix well, then add the water and the seasonings.
- Add the macaroni and stir everything together. Stir occasionally as it heats up.
- When you see wisps of steam, lower the heat to medium-low.
- Stir regularly and cook for 9 to 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the macaroni is just cooked.
- Remove it from the stove, stir in the cheese quickly, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately!
