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Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese
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This Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese is a quick, rich, and irresistibly cheesy comfort food perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple pantry staples like elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese, it delivers a velvety texture and deliciously creamy sauce that satisfies both kids and adults alike. Easy to customize and ready in under 30 minutes, this classic homemade mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free option)
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Be careful not to overcook, as the pasta will continue to absorb sauce.
  2. Make the Roux: In the same pot or a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and whisk constantly to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling and slightly golden to cook off the raw flour taste.
  3. Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece of macaroni evenly with the creamy sauce.
  6. Serve Immediately: For the best creamy texture and flavor, serve your Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese right away while it’s warm and gooey.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for a pronounced cheesy flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta; slightly undercook for best texture.
  • Whisk constantly when making the roux and adding milk to prevent lumps.
  • Add cheese off the heat to keep the sauce creamy.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by adding more milk if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, quick dinner, kid-friendly, comfort food

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/creamy-stovetop-mac-and-cheese/