Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe. Velvety cheese melds with perfectly cooked pasta to create a rich, satisfying dish that's ready in just minutes. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this creamy, delicious classic that everyone will love!

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-09T16:12:43.526Z

This Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese is a family favorite that brings comfort and joy to every meal. Perfect for any occasion!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese is an incredibly versatile dish that suits any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering. This recipe provides a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal, or serve it as a side dish during barbecues or potlucks. It's a classic comfort food that always brings a smile.

With its rich and creamy texture, this mac and cheese recipe also serves as a fantastic base for personalization. You can easily add cooked proteins like chicken, bacon, or shrimp to elevate it further. Alternatively, mix in some vegetables such as broccoli or peas to boost nutritional value and taste. The possibilities are endless, making it a dish that caters to all taste preferences.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect stovetop mac and cheese, pay close attention to the pasta cooking time. Cook the macaroni just until al dente; it will continue to soften when tossed with the cheese sauce. This prevents your mac and cheese from becoming mushy, ensuring a delightful texture.

When preparing the cheese sauce, it's essential to keep the heat at medium and stir continuously. This prevents the sauce from scorching and helps create a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer a cheesier flavor, experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, in addition to cheddar for a unique twist.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creaminess and heat gently on the stovetop or microwave. Stir well to ensure even heating and prevent it from drying out.

For a meal prep option, you can also freeze mac and cheese in smaller portions. Just make sure to cool it completely before packing it into freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. This way, you can always have a bowl of comforting mac and cheese ready to go!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

These simple ingredients come together to create a deliciously creamy dish!

Cooking Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 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 flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the milk. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.

Combine and Serve

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheese until melted. Add the cooked macaroni, mix well, and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Your creamy mac and cheese is ready to be enjoyed!

Nutritional Value

Macaroni and cheese, while considered a comfort food, can also be a part of a balanced diet when made with the right ingredients. Whole-grain elbow macaroni provides additional fiber, which is beneficial for digestion. Coupled with the protein from cheese and milk, this dish can help you maintain energy levels throughout the day.

You can enhance the nutritional profile further by incorporating vegetables. Spinach, kale, or roasted peppers can easily be added into the sauce or mixed into the macaroni. This not only boosts the vitamins and minerals but also adds color and flavor, making the dish even more enticing.

Variations to Try

Explore fun variations of classic mac and cheese by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. For instance, try a buffalo chicken mac by adding shredded cooked chicken and hot sauce to the cheese mixture. Or opt for a Mediterranean twist using feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for added zing.

You can also create a gourmet experience by topping your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs and broiling it for a crispy finish. Mixing in herbs and spices, like garlic powder or smoked paprika, can elevate the flavor profile, making your stovetop mac and cheese an exciting dish every time!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and added freshness. A sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top before serving adds a delightful layer of flavor that complements the richness of the dish.

Pair your mac and cheese with a bright, acidic side such as a coleslaw or a citrus-based salad. This balance helps cut through the creaminess and adds a refreshing element, making for a well-rounded meal that's bound to please everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Try mixing in mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor.

→ Is this recipe freezable?

Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.