Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of homemade macaroni and cheese. This classic comfort food brings together tender pasta and a velvety cheese sauce, creating a dish that's both nostalgic and utterly satisfying.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe during a cold winter evening when I needed something quick, easy, and comforting. With just a few pantry staples, it became an instant hit in my household, and now, it’s a regular on our dinner table. Let's dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Why You'll Love This Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite mac and cheese recipe. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it's also super simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

First off, this recipe is as quick as it gets. In just 20 minutes, you can have a warm, cheesy masterpiece ready to serve, saving you time without compromising on flavor.

It's also a budget-friendly meal. With basic ingredients like pasta, milk, and cheese, this recipe is kind to your wallet while delivering a rich, indulgent taste.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable. Whether you’re adding bacon bits, fresh veggies, or a pinch of spice, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never want to go back to boxed mac and cheese. It’s a true game-changer, offering a depth of flavor that prepackaged mixes just can't compete with.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Every component works together to create the ultimate creamy mac and cheese experience.

The pasta is, of course, the star of the show. Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can use shells, rotini, or even cavatappi for a twist. Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente so it holds its shape in the sauce.

For the sauce, you'll need cheese – lots of it! A combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack strikes the perfect balance between tangy and creamy. Freshly grating the cheese is worth the effort, as it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

The milk forms the base of the sauce. Whole milk provides richness, but you can use 2% if you prefer a lighter version. Add a splash of cream for an extra-luxurious texture.

A bit of butter and flour are combined to create a roux, the secret to that velvety sauce. It’s what thickens the milk and helps the cheese incorporate seamlessly.

Don’t forget the seasonings! A dash of salt, a sprinkle of pepper, and a pinch of paprika or mustard powder enhance the flavor, giving the dish depth and a subtle kick.

A large saucepan or skillet is all you’ll need to make this recipe, making cleanup as easy as the cooking process.

How To Make This Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese

Creating this luscious mac and cheese is a breeze, even if you’re new to cooking. Let’s walk through the steps together.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain it and set aside. This step is quick, so make sure your other ingredients are prepped beforehand.

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste. This roux is the key to a creamy sauce, so cook it for about a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly. This will only take a few minutes, and you’ll notice the sauce becoming silky and glossy.

Turn the heat to low and add your cheese, one handful at a time. Stir until each addition is fully melted before adding more. This method ensures a smooth, velvety sauce without any graininess.

Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring until every piece is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking, then serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy evenings when you need comfort food in a flash.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine!), storing them properly will keep the mac and cheese delicious for days.

Transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The cheese sauce may thicken slightly as it cools, but it’s easy to revive.

To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce as needed.

For stovetop reheating, warm the leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a bit of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This mac and cheese recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

For a smoky twist, add crumbled bacon or a handful of smoked gouda cheese. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Stir in steamed broccoli florets, roasted red peppers, or even peas for added color and nutrition.

If you’re a spice lover, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle on some hot sauce for a fiery kick.

Swap the cheddar for other cheeses like gruyere, fontina, or parmesan for a more gourmet version. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor to the dish.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour in the roux with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch.

Feel free to get creative! This recipe is a fantastic base for trying new combinations and making it your own.

Warm, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying, this homemade stove top macaroni and cheese is a dish you’ll return to time and again. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, it’s guaranteed to bring a little comfort to your day.

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