Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese! This quick and easy recipe promises to deliver a rich, velvety cheese sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of elbow macaroni. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also a nostalgic favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a crowd-pleasing side dish for your next gathering, this creamy delight will have everyone coming back for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Pour 8 ounces of elbow macaroni into the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate large skillet or saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the melted butter. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour 2 cups of milk into the roux, whisking constantly to create a smooth, creamy base. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth.
- Season the cheese sauce with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Drain the cooked macaroni thoroughly and return it to the pot.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir gently until every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Let the mac and cheese sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional black pepper or chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Smooth Sauce: To achieve a lump-free cheese sauce, whisk the flour into the melted butter thoroughly before adding the milk. This creates a smooth roux that serves as the perfect base for your cheese.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Seasoning Matters: Don’t forget to taste your cheese sauce before mixing it with the pasta. Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference for a flavor that pops!
- Let It Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for a couple of minutes after mixing in the cheese sauce. This helps thicken the sauce and makes it even creamier when served.
- Garnish for Flair: Add a sprinkle of black pepper or fresh parsley on top before serving for a touch of color and extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
