Stovetop Mac And Cheese

Name: Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a quick and creamy comfort food classic that brings joy to both kids and adults alike.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:24:32.774Z

This Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe is a favorite in many households. With its creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, it’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a comforting weekend treat. Just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes are all you need to whip up this delicious dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy cheese sauce that clings to every noodle
Quick and easy preparation in just one pot
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like bacon or veggies

      

A Comfort Food Classic

Stovetop Mac and Cheese is more than just a dish; it's a warm hug in a bowl. The creamy, cheesy goodness is the epitome of comfort food, making it a go-to choice for family dinners, quick lunches, and even late-night snacks. Whether you're a kid or just a kid at heart, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. It's simple enough for beginners but delicious enough to impress anyone.

What sets this stovetop version apart is its ease of preparation. You can whip it up in just one pot, which means less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal. With every spoonful, you'll experience the richness of sharp cheddar cheese combined with perfectly cooked macaroni, making it a dish that never disappoints.

Customizable Creations

One of the best aspects of Stovetop Mac and Cheese is its versatility. While the classic recipe shines with just cheese and pasta, you can easily elevate it by adding your favorite ingredients. Consider throwing in crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for added texture. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary preferences.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese. While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, mixing in some mozzarella for stretchiness or Gruyère for a nutty flavor can create exciting variations. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this beloved dish in countless ways, keeping mealtime fresh and exciting.

Perfect Pairings

Stovetop Mac and Cheese makes for a delightful main dish, but it can also be paired beautifully with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast or pair it with garlic bread for an indulgent feast. For a heartier option, consider adding grilled chicken or roasted vegetables to the plate.

Don't forget about beverage pairings! A chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea complements the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly, while a light red wine can elevate your dining experience for adult gatherings. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this dish is sure to please.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Feel free to add extra ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or different types of cheese to personalize your dish!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!

For a little extra crunch, try topping it with breadcrumbs and broiling for a few minutes before serving!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Stovetop Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly creamy, be sure to use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged shredded cheese. Pre-packaged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your sauce. For best results, shred your cheese right before cooking.

When cooking the macaroni, avoid overcooking it. Aim for al dente texture, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce. This will help maintain the perfect bite and prevent the dish from becoming mushy.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, storing Stovetop Mac and Cheese is easy! Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.

For best results, avoid microwaving the mac and cheese as it can dry out. Instead, gently stir while reheating on the stovetop, ensuring every bite is just as creamy and delicious as the first time you made it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ How can I make it richer?

To make it richer, you can add cream instead of milk or mix in cream cheese for extra creaminess.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can use any cheese you like! Mozzarella, Gouda, or a blend of cheeses are great alternatives.