This stovetop mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! It brings together pasta and gooey cheese in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
You know it’s a success when your kids go back for seconds! I love adding a little extra cheese on top for that extra cheesiness. Can’t resist! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This classic shape holds the cheese well! If you don’t have elbow macaroni, feel free to use other shapes like shells or penne. They all work great!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the star here for flavor. If you want something milder, go for medium cheddar. For a fun twist, try pepper jack for a little kick!
Whole Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use skim milk or low-fat milk, but the mac and cheese may be less creamy.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended, but you can use olive oil or margarine as a substitute. It changes the taste a bit but still works well!
How Do I Ensure My Macaroni Turns Out Perfectly Tender?
Cooking macaroni just right is key for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine macaroni, water, milk, and butter in your pot.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat; stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the macaroni is tender. Don’t overcook; taste a piece to check!
Remember, it’ll keep cooking a bit after you remove it from heat, so take it off as soon as it’s done!
Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious stovetop mac and cheese will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
In a medium pot, combine the elbow macaroni, water, milk, and butter. Place the pot on the stove and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking together.
2. Cooking Until Tender:
Continue cooking the macaroni until it becomes tender and most of the liquid is absorbed—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and taste a piece to check if it’s cooked to your liking!
3. Adding the Cheese:
Once the macaroni is perfectly cooked, lower the heat to medium-low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously as the cheese melts, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
4. Seasoning the Dish:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Season your cheesy mixture with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you’d like. Stir everything well to make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
5. Serving Your Mac and Cheese:
Remove the pot from the heat and serve the creamy mac and cheese immediately in bowls. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top!
Enjoy your cheesy, comforting stovetop mac and cheese! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since gluten-free pasta may cook faster or slower than regular pasta. Follow the package instructions for the best results!
What If I Don’t Have Whole Milk?
If you don’t have whole milk, you can use 2% milk or even skim milk. It will be slightly less creamy, but it will still taste delicious! For an even creamier option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and heavy cream.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, or warm it up on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Mac and Cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix in some cooked vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition. Just add them just before serving to warm through without overcooking!