Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Ah, mac and cheese! The ultimate comfort food that can turn any ordinary day into something special. It's creamy, cheesy, and feels like a warm hug on your plate. When I think of the perfect pairing with stovetop mac and cheese, I’m drawn to crispy baked chicken thighs. The crunchy skin complements the rich and creamy pasta beautifully. But let’s not stray too far from the star of the show today—stovetop mac and cheese!

What is Stovetop Mac and Cheese?

Stovetop mac and cheese is a quick and easy version of the classic oven-baked dish. It’s bound to become a staple in your home because it combines just the right flavors and texture in a fraction of the time. It’s a beautiful blend of macaroni, rich sauces, and melted cheese crafted conveniently on the stovetop—no oven needed!

As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, I’ve spent years perfecting this dish. I’ve tried various recipes and revisited my childhood memories of cheesy goodness. Today, I’m excited to share my ingredient stovetop mac and cheese recipe that’s sure to be a hit!

The Ingredients

Before we get started, let's make sure you have all the essentials lined up. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and richness.
  
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Because everything's better with butter!
  
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce: Just a touch for those who like a mild kick.
  
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious texture.
  
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese: This gives an extra layer of creaminess.
  
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni: A classic choice for any mac and cheese.
  
• 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance flavors.
  
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken up the cheese sauce.
  
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and smokiness.
  
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the dish!
  
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard: For a little tang that brightens up the flavor.
  

How to Make Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Here’s a brief intro: The beauty of this stovetop mac and cheese lies in its simplicity. You boil the pasta, create a velvety cheese sauce, and combine the two. Easy peasy!

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once your water is bubbling away, add the dry elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then to prevent it from sticking. Once it's ready, drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Create the Cheese Sauce

Now, in the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until you have a smooth paste. This forms the base for your cheese sauce. Cook this mixture, whisking constantly, for about 2 minutes. This helps to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture begins to thicken. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the cream cheese, hot sauce, and seasonings (that includes salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard).

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Once the sauce is nicely thickened, remove it from heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until it’s molten and well combined. The result should be a smooth, irresistible cheese sauce.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Finally, toss the cooked macaroni into the cheesy goodness. Stir until all the pasta is thoroughly coated. Make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, tasting along the way. Your stovetop mac and cheese is now ready for devouring!

Notes

Here are some handy tips for making this dish even better:

• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different cheeses. Pepper Jack adds a nice spicy kick.
  
• Extra Creaminess: For an ultra-rich sauce, use a combination of cream cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
  
• Make It Healthier: Substitute some pasta with steamed cauliflower for a lower-carb version.
  
• Serving Fresh: Mac and cheese is best served right after cooking while it’s creamy.
  
• Add-In Options: Toss in cooked bacon bits, broccoli, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
  

Storage Tips

Stovetop mac and cheese stores well if you find yourself with leftovers. Here are some tips to keep it fresh:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  
• To reheat, add a splash of milk to help revive that creamy texture.
  
• You can freeze mac and cheese for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.
  

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough idea of what you’ll get per serving (about 1 cup):

• Calories: 450
  
• Protein: 18g
  
• Fat: 22g
  
• Carbohydrates: 50g
  
• Fiber: 2g
  
• Sugars: 2g
  

Always check with specific brands and adjustments to get the exact numbers that fit your delicious concoction!

Serving Suggestions

What can you pair with this heavenly dish? Here are some ideas:

1. Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, the crunch of the skin pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
   
2. Garlic Bread: There’s something about buttery, crispy garlic bread that goes with mac and cheese. Soak up the cheesy goodness with each bite!
   
3. Roasted Broccoli: The slight char and bitterness of roasted broccoli provide a nice contrast to the dish.
   
4. Caesar Salad: A crunchy, fresh salad tossed in a tangy dressing offers a refreshing balance.
   
5. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The salty, crispy bacon complements the cheese while adding a gourmet touch to your meal.
   

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Stovetop Mac and Cheese?

If you need to switch things up or adapt to diets, here are some alternatives:

• Almond Milk: This can replace whole milk for a lighter version. Just ensure it's unsweetened for proper flavor.
  
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni for a gluten-free option. It cooks similarly!
  
• Nutritional Yeast: For a vegan alternative, add nutritional yeast instead of cheese. It provides a cheesy flavor with zero dairy.
  
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you're in a pinch, this soup can act as a base for your cheese sauce, adding depth and flavor.
  
• Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free twist, use coconut milk and a vegan cream cheese alternative. The flavor profile will change but still remain rich.
  

Conclusion

There you have it! The ultimate stovetop mac and cheese recipe, crafted with love and a touch of humor. This dish is rich and satisfying, perfect for sharing with family or indulging in a solo binge-watch session. With so many variations and adaptations, you can make it your own. So, gather your ingredients and whip this up tonight—you won't regret it!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Basic Rotisserie Chicken Recipe
• Classic Margarita Recipe Tequila Cocktail
• Homemade Spicy Chili Crisp