Stovetop Mac And Cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a quick and creamy comfort food that's perfect for any cheese lover.

Ella Townsend

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:55:47.569Z

This Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a rich and creamy texture that will please the whole family. It's the ultimate comfort food!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and cheesy goodness in every bite
  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
  • Versatile with endless topping options

Perfect for Any Occasion

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is not just a dish; it's a delightful experience that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you are whipping it up for a quick lunch, serving it as a comforting dinner, or even dishing it up for a movie night, this recipe never disappoints. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a go-to comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. You can add vegetables for a nutritious twist, mix in proteins like grilled chicken or bacon for a heartier meal, or simply enjoy it as is. The possibilities are endless, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best things about Stovetop Mac And Cheese is how quickly it can be prepared. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

The stovetop method also means you can keep an eye on your cheese sauce as it comes together, ensuring perfect consistency and flavor every time. No need to bake in the oven or wait for it to cool down; this recipe is straightforward and stress-free.

Endless Customization Options

One of the joys of making Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ability to personalize it according to your taste preferences. Feeling adventurous? Try adding spices like cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or herbs like thyme for added depth of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to create your signature blend.

Topping your mac and cheese can elevate the dish even further. Consider adding crispy breadcrumbs, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and texture. With so many options at your disposal, you can easily adapt this classic recipe to suit any palate.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Stovetop Mac And Cheese

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and garlic powder, stirring to combine. Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings like breadcrumbs or extra cheese!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, Stovetop Mac And Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. You may want to add a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture, stirring until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the mac and cheese. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Pairing Suggestions

Stovetop Mac And Cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese. The crispness of the greens complements the creamy pasta perfectly.

You might also want to pair it with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, adding a delightful balance of flavors and textures. A glass of crisp white wine or a light beer can enhance your dining experience, making it a perfect meal for gatherings or casual dinners.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Broccoli, peas, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.

Stovetop Mac And Cheese

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a quick and creamy comfort food that's perfect for any cheese lover.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Ella Townsend

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Stovetop Mac And Cheese

  1. 8 oz elbow macaroni
  2. 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  3. 1/2 cup milk
  4. 2 tablespoons butter
  5. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and garlic powder, stirring to combine. Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Step 03

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Total Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 195mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 6g