Pin It A rich, ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese made on the stovetop for the ultimate cozy comfort food, featuring a velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta.
This creamy stove-top mac and cheese quickly became a family favorite thanks to its comforting richness and simple method.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk warmed, 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese grated, 60 g (2 oz) Gruyère or mozzarella cheese grated, 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, 1 tbsp toasted breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly, until the mixture is bubbling but not browned.
- Step 3:
- Gradually pour in the warmed milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Step 4:
- Reduce heat to low. Add the grated cheddar and Gruyère (or mozzarella) cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, garnished with chives and toasted breadcrumbs if desired.
Pin It Our family enjoys this dish as a warm comfort food on chillier evenings, often sharing stories around the table while savoring each bite.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this mac and cheese with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Add-Ins and Variations
Try mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli to add flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 430 calories, 21 g total fat, 42 g carbohydrates, 18 g protein.
Pin It 
This creamy stove-top mac and cheese is a simple yet indulgent dish that you can prepare quickly on any busy night.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as its shape holds the creamy cheese sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used here?
Yes, sharp cheddar is central for flavor, but Gruyère can be swapped with mozzarella for a milder, creamier profile.
- → How do I achieve a smooth and creamy cheese sauce?
Whisk warmed milk gradually into a roux of butter and flour, cook until thickened, then melt shredded cheeses slowly to avoid graininess.
- → Are there ways to add texture to this creamy dish?
Sprinkling toasted breadcrumbs and freshly chopped chives on top adds a satisfying crunch and fresh notes.
- → Can this be prepared ahead and reheated?
Yes, store it refrigerated after cooling and gently reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess.