Easy Homemade Stovetop Mac and Cheese
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
478 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Easy Homemade Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Description
Easy Homemade Stovetop Mac and Cheese prepares the pasta first in salted boiling water and then blends a silky sauce by whisking egg with evaporated milk, salt, mustard powder, and hot sauce before stirring it into the pasta with shredded cheddar cheese. Gentle cooking over low heat helps the sauce thicken to a creamy consistency without scrambling the egg.
The mustard powder contributes a subtle sharpness that enhances the mild cheddar's flavors, while the hot sauce adds a gentle kick to balance richness. The chosen elbow macaroni or similar small pasta shapes hold the sauce well, supporting each cheesy bite.
This mac and cheese is suited to moderate servings due to its richness; it can be served as a main course or side dish. Adjusting cheese sharpness by mixing cheddars can customize the flavor to preference. Served immediately, it provides a hot, creamy texture characteristic of classic comfort food.
Using evaporated milk concentrates the milkfat, improving sauce creaminess. If desired, half a 12-ounce can of evaporated milk can be used with a splash of regular milk to reach the volume needed. Mustard powder can be substituted or omitted based on availability and taste.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces macaroni (such as elbows, small shells or wagon wheels)
- 1 egg large
- 6 ounces evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon mustard powder dry
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese shredded (preferably medium or mild)
Instructions
- In a large pot of boiling, salted water cook the pasta until al dente and drain. Return to the pot.
- Whisk together the egg, milk, salt, mustard, and hot sauce. Stir into the pasta and add the cheese. Over low heat continue to stir for 2 to 3 minutes or until silky and creamy. The sauce will thicken more as it sits. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Serving size suggests 4 moderate portions, but you can divide into 3 generous servings if preferred.
- Medium or mild cheddar cheeses are recommended to avoid overly sharp flavors; combining with Monterey Jack can mellow taste.
- If unavailable, use half a 12-ounce can of evaporated milk plus regular milk to approximate 6 fluid ounces.
- Dry mustard powder adds subtle flavor; replace with 2 teaspoons prepared mustard or omit if needed.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 478 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 478kcal | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 46g | 15% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 23g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 110mg | 37% |
| Sodium | 691mg | 29% |
| Potassium | 130mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.