Stovetop Mac and Cheese
User Reviews
5
Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Description
Stovetop Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food that centers on elbow noodles coated in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. The recipe starts by cooking the pasta to just tender but still firm to maintain texture after mixing. Meanwhile, a roux is made by whisking butter, flour, and seasonings including garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, which is then combined with milk to form a smooth sauce base. Sharp cheddar cheese is melted into this sauce, resulting in a rich and velvety coating for the pasta.
The final dish is creamy with a well-balanced cheesy flavor and a slight garlicky note from the powder. It is designed to be served immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest state, which makes it versatile for standalone servings or as a side. This stovetop version requires no baking, making it a convenient option for a comforting meal on short notice.
For added variations, seasonings like hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika can be incorporated before melting the cheese. Leftovers should be stored refrigerated and gently reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Breadcrumb toppings and mix-ins such as cooked broccoli or shredded chicken can transform this into a more substantial main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow noodles
- ½ cup butter salted
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon black pepper ground
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 cups milk
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese shredded sharp
Instructions
- Cook elbow noodles to al dente according to directions on the box. Drain well.
- In the meantime, in another large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, pepper, salt and garlic powder until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until thickened.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking as you add it. Whisk until smooth. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes or until the sauce starts to thicken.
- Turn heat to low and add in shredded cheese, whisk until cheese is melted.
- Pour cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir until combined.
- Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken and then serve.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to maintain texture after mixing with the sauce.
- Add hot sauce, cayenne, or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for a flavor twist.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy cheese sauce at its best.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Optional: top with seasoned breadcrumbs and broil briefly for a crisp topping.
- Mix in cooked vegetables or proteins to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 493 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 493kcal | 25% |
| Carbohydrates | 53g | 18% |
| Protein | 18g | 36% |
| Fat | 23g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 65mg | 22% |
| Sodium | 465mg | 19% |
| Potassium | 305mg | 6% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin A | 813IU | 16% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 332mg | 33% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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