Pin It A rich ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese made on the stovetop for the ultimate cozy comfort food featuring a velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta
This creamy stove-top mac and cheese has become my go-to dish on chilly evenings when I need something warm and satisfying
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp all-purpose flour 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk warmed 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese grated 60 g (2 oz) Gruyère or mozzarella cheese grated 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/4 tsp paprika Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives 1 tbsp toasted breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente Drain and set aside
- Melt butter and stir flour:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat melt the butter Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute whisking constantly until the mixture is bubbling but not browned
- Add warmed milk:
- Gradually pour in the warmed milk whisking continuously to prevent lumps Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon
- Mix in cheeses:
- Reduce heat to low Add the grated cheddar and Gruyère (or mozzarella) cheeses stirring until fully melted and smooth
- Season sauce:
- Stir in the Dijon mustard garlic powder onion powder paprika and season with salt and pepper
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly
- Serve:
- Serve immediately garnished with chives and toasted breadcrumbs if desired
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table sharing smiles and seconds
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal
Variations
Try mixing in cooked bacon sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrition
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or microwave
Pin It This stovetop mac and cheese comes together quickly for a comforting meal you will want to make again and again
Your Questions Answered
- → How do I make the cheese sauce smooth and creamy?
Whisk the butter and flour continuously over medium heat until bubbling but not browned. Gradually add warmed milk while whisking to prevent lumps, then melt the grated cheeses slowly to achieve a silky sauce.
- → Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is traditional for coating evenly, but other small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi work well with the creamy cheese sauce.
- → What can I add for extra flavor variations?
Try mixing in sautéed mushrooms, cooked bacon, or steamed broccoli to enhance taste and texture.
- → How do I get a crispy topping for this comfort dish?
Top with toasted breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown for a satisfying crunchy contrast.
- → Is there a way to make the dish richer?
Substitute half the milk with heavy cream to elevate the creaminess and richness of the sauce.