How do you make stovetop mac and cheese from scratch?

To make stovetop mac and cheese from scratch, start by boiling elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk while stirring continuously to form a smooth sauce. Once thickened, reduce heat and stir in shredded cheese, such as cheddar, until melted. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stir well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for creamy, homemade mac and cheese.

What type of cheese works best for stovetop mac and cheese?

The best cheese for stovetop mac and cheese is one that melts smoothly and has a rich flavor. Common choices include sharp cheddar for its classic taste, American cheese for creaminess, and Gruyère for a nutty twist. Combining cheeses, like cheddar and mozzarella, can add both flavor and stretchiness. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses with anti-caking agents, as they may not melt as well. For optimal texture, use freshly shredded cheese and add it gradually to your sauce while stirring.

Can I make stovetop mac and cheese ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, you can prepare stovetop mac and cheese ahead of time, but it's best to store it properly to maintain its creamy texture. After cooking, let the mac and cheese cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk and gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat while stirring often. This helps restore creaminess without drying out the dish. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can cause uneven heating.

How can I make stovetop mac and cheese healthier without losing flavor?

To make stovetop mac and cheese healthier, try using whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein. Substitute part of the butter with olive oil or use less butter overall. Use low-fat milk or unsweetened plant-based milk instead of whole milk or cream. Incorporate finely grated vegetables like cauliflower or butternut squash into the cheese sauce to boost nutrition without compromising flavor. Also, choose sharp cheeses, as their stronger taste allows you to use less cheese while keeping the dish tasty.

Why does my stovetop mac and cheese sometimes turn out grainy or greasy?

Grainy or greasy stovetop mac and cheese typically results from cheese that overheats or separates. To avoid this, add cheese slowly to the warm (not boiling) sauce, stirring constantly to allow it to melt evenly. Using a roux-based sauce with the right ratio of fat, flour, and milk provides a smooth base that prevents clumping. Also, avoid cheap or heavily processed cheeses with fillers, as they may not melt properly. If the sauce breaks, gently whisk in a small amount of hot milk to bring it back together.

Stovetop Mac Cheese Recipe For Creamy Quick Comfort

Name: Stovetop Mac Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 cups uncooked macaroni (about 1/2 lb); – 2 tablespoons butter; – 2 tablespoons flour; – 1/2 cup heavy cream; – 1 cup milk; – 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder; – 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; – 1/4 teaspoon salt; – 1/4 teaspoon pepper; – 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce; – 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Description

🧀 Enjoy a creamy and comforting stovetop mac and cheese that’s quick and easy to prepare.
🍴 Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers rich flavor with simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

– 2 cups uncooked macaroni (about 1/2 lb)

– 2 tablespoons butter

– 2 tablespoons flour

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup milk

– 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce

– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1-Cook 2 cups uncooked macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

2-Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium heat and stir in 2 tablespoons flour, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes.

3-Gradually add 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 cup milk in splashes while stirring continuously to prevent the sauce from breaking.

4-Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and add 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce. Lower heat to low.

5-Slowly stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and fully combined.

6-Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Serve immediately.

Notes

🧀 Use freshly shredded cheese for superior melting and flavor.
🌶️ Mustard powder and hot sauce enhance flavor without overpowering.
🍝 Try alternative pasta shapes like cavatappi or rotini for variety.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 571
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 513 mg
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 21 g
Carbohydrates: 47 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 20 g
Cholesterol: 106 mg

Keywords: Stovetop Mac and Cheese, Quick Comfort Food, Creamy Mac and Cheese, Easy Pasta