Ah, macaroni and cheese—a beloved dish that brings warm nostalgia to many of us. It evokes memories of childhood dinners, family gatherings, or simply moments when we craved something comforting.
Today, I want to share my go-to stovetop macaroni and cheese recipe, a version that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Trust me, you won’t need a baking dish for this one; it all comes together in one pot on the stovetop. Join me on this delicious journey!
What is Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese?
Stovetop macaroni and cheese is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish made by cooking macaroni on the stovetop and combining it with a rich cheese sauce. Unlike the baked version, this method allows for a quicker meal that doesn’t require oven time.
The sauce blends perfectly with the macaroni, creating a smooth, comforting texture that warms the soul. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; with just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese Recipe
This recipe is special for several reasons. First of all, it genuinely captures that creamy, gooey goodness that makes macaroni and cheese a comfort food classic. You know, the kind that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite cheeses or add in veggies, proteins, or spices. No two batches need to be the same, and you can adapt it to fit any dietary need or preference. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Now, that’s a winner in my book!
The Ingredients
Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Here’s the lineup:
250 g (2 1/2 cups) dry elbow macaroni: The classic choice that holds the sauce beautifully.
2 1/2 cups water: For boiling the macaroni.
2 cups whole milk: This gives the sauce its creaminess. Low-fat works too if you prefer.
50 g (3 1/2 tablespoons) unsalted butter: The base for your cheese sauce.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
1 1/2 cups mixed shredded cheese: A combination of Cheddar, Gruyère, or Colby gives depth.
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that stretchiness you love.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings.
Optional Seasoning Enhancers:
1/2 teaspoon onion granules
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard seed powder
1 teaspoon garlic granules
Added for Depth of Flavor:
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
These extras are not mandatory but highly recommended—they can elevate your dish to new heights!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add 2 1/2 cups of dry elbow macaroni. Cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, so nothing sticks.
Step 2: Drain Your Macaroni
Once the pasta is al dente, it’s time to drain. Use a colander to remove the water. Don’t rinse the noodles; we want them to hold onto the creamy sauce that’s coming up next.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot (yep, we’re keeping it simple), melt 50 g of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce. Keep whisking for about 1–2 minutes until it’s a light golden color.
Step 4: Add Milk
Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens—this should take about 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Cheese Time!
Once your sauce has thickened, it’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. Lower the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of mixed shredded cheese and 3/4 cup of mozzarella. I usually add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper at this stage. Stir until all that cheese melts into a luscious sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the drained macaroni back into the pot. Stir it all together until the pasta is well-coated in the cheesy goodness. Taste, and if you feel like it’s lacking a little something, sprinkle in the optional seasoning enhancers or Worcestershire sauce. Get ready to serve!
Tips & Tricks
Use High-Quality Cheese: The cheese variety directly affects flavor. Experiment until you find your perfect blend.
Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Aim for al dente. It will absorb some sauce as it sits.
Add Extra Ingredients: Consider mixing in cooked bacon, sausages, vegetables, or even jalapeños for a kick.
Keep It Creamy: If it thickens too much as it sits, stir in a splash of milk to smooth it out when re-heating.
Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of paprika, some fresh herbs, or cracked black pepper for added color and taste.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of this delectable stovetop macaroni and cheese provides a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats:
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Protein: About 20 g
Carbohydrates: Roughly 50 g
Fat: Approximately 20 g
Fiber: About 2 g
Please remember that these values can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients you choose.
Can I Store Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you find it has thickened, add a splash of milk to bring that creaminess back.
What Can I Serve with Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese?
Here are some ideas to complement your mac and cheese:
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, it pairs wonderfully.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice contrast to the richness.
Grilled Chicken: This protein boosts the meal’s heartiness; toss in some spices for flavor.
Vegetable Medley: Steamed or roasted vegetables lighten things up.
Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad adds a refreshing end to the meal.
Variations
Let’s get creative! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:
Three-Cheese Macaroni: Use a mix of Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan for an indulgent twist.
Buffalo Chicken Mac: Mix in shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Veggie-Packed Mac: Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach to boost nutrition.
Bacon and Spinach Mac: Mix in crispy bacon bits and fresh spinach for a tasty combination.
Lobster Mac: Who doesn’t love a fancy seafood touch? Incorporate fresh cooked lobster for a luxurious treat.
Conclusion
There you have it—a creamy, dreamy stovetop macaroni and cheese recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. This comforting dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also versatile enough to accommodate your family’s preferences. Whether you stick to the classic flavors or mix in unique ingredients, you’ll create something delicious.
So, gather your loved ones, whip up this fantastic recipe, and dive into those cheesy moments. Enjoy the journey of cooking, the laughter of sharing meals, and the joy of creating. After all, food is about connection and memories. Happy cooking!
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Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese Recipe – Simple Food Dishes
Description
Ah, macaroni and cheese—a beloved dish that brings warm nostalgia to many of us. It evokes memories of childhood dinners, family gatherings, or simply moments when we craved something comforting.
Ingredients
Optional Seasoning Enhancers:
Added for Depth of Flavor:
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
-
Start by bringing 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling away, add 2 1/2 cups of dry elbow macaroni. Cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, so nothing sticks.
Step 2: Drain Your Macaroni
-
Once the pasta is al dente, it’s time to drain. Use a colander to remove the water. Don’t rinse the noodles; we want them to hold onto the creamy sauce that’s coming up next.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
-
In the same pot (yep, we're keeping it simple), melt 50 g of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce. Keep whisking for about 1–2 minutes until it’s a light golden color.
Step 4: Add Milk
-
Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens—this should take about 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Cheese Time!
-
Once your sauce has thickened, it’s the moment you’ve been waiting for. Lower the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of mixed shredded cheese and 3/4 cup of mozzarella. I usually add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper at this stage. Stir until all that cheese melts into a luscious sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
-
Finally, add the drained macaroni back into the pot. Stir it all together until the pasta is well-coated in the cheesy goodness. Taste, and if you feel like it’s lacking a little something, sprinkle in the optional seasoning enhancers or Worcestershire sauce. Get ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 20g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The cheese variety directly affects flavor. Experiment until you find your perfect blend.
- Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Aim for al dente. It will absorb some sauce as it sits.
- Add Extra Ingredients: Consider mixing in cooked bacon, sausages, vegetables, or even jalapeños for a kick.
- Keep It Creamy: If it thickens too much as it sits, stir in a splash of milk to smooth it out when re-heating.
- Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of paprika, some fresh herbs, or cracked black pepper for added color and taste.
