Quick and Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe
Craving a warm and cheesy meal that brings back childhood memories? This stovetop mac and cheese is just what you need! It’s not just any mac and cheese; it’s the best mac and cheese recipe you can whip up in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious homemade mac and cheese recipe that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a mac and cheese recipe easy enough for anyone to master!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions 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. Heat until warm, but do not boil.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the milk mixture, stirring until melted and smooth. If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Combine: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and enjoy while hot!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
Get ready for a creamy, cheesy indulgence that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe is all about convenience without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Embracing Comfort in a Bowl
There’s something uniquely comforting about a steaming bowl of creamy stovetop mac and cheese. It’s a dish that many of us cherish, often reminiscent of childhood meals that brought warmth and joy.
This homemade mac and cheese recipe showcases simplicity and richness, making it a standout choice for those seeking warmth on a chilly evening. With a few basic ingredients, including sharp cheddar cheese and elbow macaroni, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes.
A Simple Yet Flavorful Dish
At the heart of this mac and cheese lies its creamy cheese sauce, which is crafted with care. The combination of butter, milk, and a touch of spices adds layers of flavor, creating a delightful base for the macaroni.
What sets this dish apart is its ease of preparation. With the mac and cheese recipe being straightforward, even novice cooks can master it quickly. Whether you’re in need of a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for a weekend, this dish adapts easily to any occasion.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this homemade mac and cheese recipe is in its ingredients. Elbow macaroni provides the perfect texture, while sharp cheddar cheese brings a rich, tangy flavor that is hard to resist.
Additionally, a hint of garlic and onion powders enhances the overall taste, giving it a depth that elevates the dish. For those wishing to add an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top is a delightful option, creating a delicious contrast with the creamy sauce.
Quick Cooking Process
The cooking process for this stovetop mac and cheese is not only quick but also enjoyable. It starts with boiling the macaroni until it reaches a tender state, then transitioning to creating the velvety cheese sauce in the same pot.
As the butter melts and the milk warms, the aromas waft through the kitchen, hinting at the delicious meal to come. Gradually incorporating the cheese until it melts creates that signature creamy texture that everyone loves.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, a simple bowl of mac and cheese can be elevated with various accompaniments. Pair it with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
For those who enjoy experimenting, consider adding extras like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a dash of hot sauce to bring a different element to the table. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations, making it suitable for all taste preferences.
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
This comforting dish not only satisfies cravings but also provides a decent balance of nutrients. Each serving contains around 400 calories, offering a good mix of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
However, it’s essential to note that this mac and cheese recipe does contain dairy and gluten, which might not suit everyone. For those with dietary restrictions, there are alternative pasta options and dairy-free cheeses available that can be used to recreate this beloved dish.
Simple Stovetop Mac and Cheese
This stovetop mac and cheese is ultra creamy and packed with flavor. Made with elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of spices, it’s a comforting dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
FAQ:
Q: What’s the fastest way to make mac and cheese on the stovetop?
A: Use pre-shredded cheese to save time, and make sure your pasta water is at a rolling boil before adding the macaroni. A smooth, quick-melting cheese sauce is key – start with a simple roux.
Q: How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming clumpy in my stovetop mac and cheese?
A: Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly until smooth. Then, remove from the heat before stirring in the cheese, a little at a time, until it’s fully melted and incorporated. This prevents overheating, which can cause clumping.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to my stovetop mac and cheese to make a homemade version?
A: Absolutly, you can try different cheeses, like Gruyere, or Gouda, spices, like a touch of nutmeg, or paprika. Also, you can add some cooked bacon.
