Stovetop Mac And Cheese

Name: Stovetop Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This creamy, delicious Stovetop Mac And Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that can be made in just a few minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:12:32.147Z

Stovetop Mac And Cheese is a classic dish that brings back childhood memories. It's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like bacon or vegetables

      

The Comfort of Homemade

There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade mac and cheese. Unlike store-bought versions, this stovetop recipe allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and creamy dish that warms the soul. The rich flavors of sharp cheddar cheese meld perfectly with the tender pasta, creating a delightful harmony that brings back memories of childhood meals. Whether enjoyed alone or as a side dish, this creamy classic is sure to satisfy any craving.

Preparing this dish on the stovetop is not only quick but also minimizes clean-up, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip it up in under 20 minutes, leaving you more time to relax or enjoy with family. Plus, you can easily scale the recipe to serve a crowd or save some for leftovers, ensuring that everyone gets a taste of this delicious comfort food.

Endless Customization

One of the best aspects of this Stovetop Mac And Cheese recipe is its versatility. While the classic combination of cheddar and macaroni is always a hit, there’s a world of possibilities for customization. Consider adding cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, steamed broccoli for a nutritional boost, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for added texture. The cheese sauce can also be adapted by incorporating different types of cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella, to create a unique twist.

Additionally, you can experiment with spices and herbs. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a delightful kick, or try adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. This flexibility means you can cater to your family’s tastes, ensuring that everyone enjoys their bowl of mac and cheese just the way they like it.

Perfect Pairings

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Stovetop Mac And Cheese:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Stovetop Mac And Cheese:

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

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

Your delicious Stovetop Mac And Cheese is ready to be enjoyed!

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy! Simply place the cooled macaroni and cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture, so it’s just as delicious as when it was first made.

For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat after freezing, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove, adding a bit of milk as needed.

Fun Facts About Mac And Cheese

Did you know that mac and cheese has been a beloved dish for centuries? Its origins date back to medieval Europe, with the first known recipe appearing in a 1769 cookbook. The dish gained popularity in America during the 19th century, especially when Thomas Jefferson served it at a state dinner after returning from France, where he discovered its creamy delight.

Today, mac and cheese is celebrated in various forms around the globe, from classic recipes to gourmet versions with truffles and lobster. No matter how you enjoy it, this dish remains a symbol of comfort and indulgence, beloved by people of all ages.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or a cheese blend.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using whole wheat pasta and low-fat cheese or adding steamed vegetables for extra nutrition.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and combine with the pasta when ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to freeze Stovetop Mac And Cheese?

It's best to eat it fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked mac and cheese. Thaw before baking and add extra milk to loosen the sauce.