Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comfort of a bowl of creamy, homemade macaroni and cheese. This simple stove-top recipe brings you all the velvety goodness of the classic dish without the hassle of baking. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to impromptu gatherings.

this Recipe

I first tried this recipe when looking for a way to upgrade boxed mac and cheese for a last-minute family dinner. To my delight, it became an instant hit, with everyone clamoring for seconds—and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible!

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for this creamy, cheesy delight. Not only is this recipe incredibly simple, but it also delivers maximum flavor in minimal time.

First, this recipe is quick and fuss-free. With just 20 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a steaming pot of cheesy perfection ready to serve. Perfect for when you’re juggling busy schedules or looking for an easy side dish.

Second, it’s made with pantry staples. There’s no need for fancy ingredients—just pasta, cheese, and a few basics you likely already have on hand. It’s budget-friendly and eliminates extra trips to the store.

Third, this mac and cheese is totally customizable. Whether you love a sharp cheddar tang or prefer a mix of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan, you can tweak the cheese blend to suit your taste buds.

Lastly, it’s a family favorite. Kids adore the creamy texture, while adults appreciate the rich, homemade flavors that beat anything out of a box. Once you make it, it’ll become your go-to comfort food for any occasion.

Now that you’re hooked, let’s dive into the simple ingredients that make this recipe shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this homemade macaroni and cheese lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable.

Macaroni pasta: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice here, but feel free to use shells, cavatappi, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. The shape matters less than having something to hold all that cheesy goodness.

Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella works beautifully, but the sky’s the limit. Cheddar brings a robust flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. For extra depth, toss in some Gruyère or Parmesan.

Milk: Whole milk is ideal for its richness, but 2% will work if that’s what you have. For an even creamier sauce, you can use a blend of milk and heavy cream.

Butter: Adds a velvety base to the sauce. Go for unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the final dish.

Flour: The key to thickening the sauce. A tablespoon or two of all-purpose flour is all you need to create that silky consistency.

Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of ground mustard powder elevate the flavor profile without overpowering the cheese. For an extra kick, add a dash of paprika or cayenne.

No fancy equipment is needed—just a large pot for boiling the pasta and a saucepan to prepare the cheese sauce.

How To Make This Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni And Cheese

Crafting this cheesy masterpiece is as easy as it gets. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a piping hot pot of mac and cheese ready to enjoy.

Start by boiling your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.

While the pasta cooks, make the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour, stirring continuously to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and smooth.

Gradually add the milk, whisking as you go to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring often, until it begins to thicken—about 3-4 minutes. Lower the heat and start adding your cheese, one handful at a time. Stir until melted before adding the next batch.

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Combine the drained pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat every piece in creamy goodness. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.

This entire process takes about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

Storage Options

If you somehow manage to have leftovers (it’s rare!), this mac and cheese stores wonderfully. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency before warming it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy-based sauce, which can separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of this recipe is how easily you can adapt it. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add protein: Stir in cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or even sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Go veggie: Mix in steamed broccoli, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions for added flavor and nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack, smoked Gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap regular pasta for a gluten-free variety, and use a gluten-free flour blend in the roux.

This mac and cheese is endlessly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

With its creamy sauce, bold flavors, and endless customization options, this Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni And Cheese is bound to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!

Print