This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! With just pasta, cheese, and a few other simple ingredients, it’s a quick meal everyone loves.
You can whip it up in no time, which is great for busy nights. Plus, who doesn’t love melted cheese? I mean, it’s basically a hug in a bowl! 🧀❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love elbow macaroni for its shape, but cavatappi is also fun to use! If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa for a similar texture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a rich flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a twist. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese options available at many grocery stores.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a creamy texture, but you can substitute with 2% milk if you’re looking to lower calories. For a lighter touch, use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Butter and Flour: These create the roux for the sauce. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter works well. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Sauce is Smooth?
Making a smooth cheese sauce can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll have it down! Start with making a roux by whisking the melted butter and flour together. Cook it for a minute, but don’t let it brown too much. This helps thicken the sauce without clumping.
- Whisk in milk and cream gradually, allowing it to thicken. Do it slowly to avoid lumps.
- Once thick, lower the heat and add cheese gradually, stirring constantly for a smooth finish.
- Mix everything together until the cheese melts fully, ensuring no strings are left behind.
Taking your time with these steps will lead to a creamy texture that’s just perfect for your stovetop mac and cheese!
Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 20 minutes from start to delicious finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or when you’re craving something comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente (that means cooked but still firm when bitten). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Making the Roux:
In the same pot you used for the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s completely melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk it together to create a smooth roux. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes lightly golden and fragrant—this helps thicken your cheese sauce!
3. Creating the Cheese Sauce:
Now, slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Be sure to whisk continuously to prevent any lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
4. Adding the Cheese:
Lower the heat to low and gradually add in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is the magic moment—yum!
5. Seasoning the Sauce:
Take a moment to taste your cheese sauce. Add salt and black pepper according to your preferences. This is where you can make it truly your own!
6. Mixing in the Pasta:
Add the drained pasta back into the pot. Stir well to ensure all the noodles are coated evenly with the delicious cheese sauce. You want every bite to have that cheesy goodness!
7. Serving Up the Goodness:
Dish the mac and cheese into bowls. If you like a little extra flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper on top. This adds a lovely color and a kick if you choose!
8. Enjoy!
Your creamy, cheesy stovetop mac and cheese is ready! Serve it up hot and enjoy the comforting flavors. Perfect for any meal or snack!
This recipe yields a luscious, tender pasta coated in a rich, smooth cheese sauce that will surely be a hit with everyone! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a bit of cream cheese for added creaminess. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for the best texture!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk if you’re looking to lighten the dish. Using an extra cup of whole milk will still yield a creamy sauce, although it may not be as rich as using heavy cream.
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mac and cheese, then let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with Stovetop Mac and Cheese?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even some protein like grilled chicken or crispy bacon. It can also be served as a main dish by itself, especially for cozy nights in!