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; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, this Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a quick and easy comfort food classic.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:42:37.989Z

This Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like bacon or veggies

      

A Quick Comfort Food

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy meal that will please both kids and adults alike.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation. Unlike baked mac and cheese, which can take a long time to cook, this stovetop version is ready in about 20 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious meal without the fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy homemade mac and cheese without the need for an oven.

Endless Customization Options

One of the best things about Stovetop Mac And Cheese is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste preferences or incorporate whatever ingredients you have on hand. Want to add some protein? Consider stirring in crispy bacon, cooked chicken, or even sautéed ground beef for a hearty twist.

Vegetarians can enjoy this dish too! Simply toss in your favorite vegetables like steamed broccoli, spinach, or diced tomatoes for a nutritious boost. The creamy cheese sauce complements a variety of flavors, making it easy to create a mac and cheese that everyone will love. Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese as well; try gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for an exciting spin!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is not just a meal for immediate enjoyment; it's also an excellent option for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if necessary.

This dish also freezes well, making it a fantastic choice for those who like to prepare meals in advance. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is a reliable go-to that can save you time and effort in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to personalize this dish!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook 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 whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated. Serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade Stovetop Mac And Cheese!

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

To achieve the creamiest texture, make sure to use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process, resulting in a grainy sauce.

Adjust the thickness of your cheese sauce by varying the amount of milk. If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less milk, and for a creamier consistency, add a little more. Remember to stir continuously while adding the milk to ensure a smooth blend.

Serving Suggestions

Stovetop Mac And Cheese can be served as a standalone meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a side salad for a well-rounded dinner. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the cheese.

For a fun twist, serve your mac and cheese in individual ramekins and top them with breadcrumbs or additional cheese before broiling for a few minutes. This adds a delightful crunch and elevates the dish, making it perfect for casual entertaining.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftover mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore moisture and creaminess.

When using the microwave to reheat, do so in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. On the stovetop, warm it over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. This will help maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and check the cheese and milk for gluten-free certification.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I add vegetables to the mac and cheese?

Definitely! Broccoli, peas, or spinach are great additions. Just steam them and mix them in before serving.