Golden Creamy Stove-Top Mac

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.

I first served this creamy stove-top mac and cheese to my family and it quickly became a favorite comfort meal for chilly evenings.

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

Crisp vegetables, roast meats, bake snacks, and reheat leftovers quickly for easy, flavorful home cooking.

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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.

Crisp vegetables, roast meats, bake snacks, and reheat leftovers quickly for easy, flavorful home cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Crisp vegetables, roast meats, bake snacks, and reheat leftovers quickly for easy, flavorful home cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe brings our family together on cold nights, filling the home with the irresistible smell of cheese and warmth.

Notes

Try mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrition. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Required Tools

Large pot Colander Large saucepan Whisk Wooden spoon or spatula Grater

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (dairy) Wheat (gluten). May contain Mustard (in Dijon mustard). If using store-bought breadcrumbs, check for additional allergens.

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Prep meals effortlessly by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, and serving dinner with the right knife always ready.

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Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy texture at its best.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta is best for this creamy mac?

Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce well and cooks evenly to tender perfection.

→ How can I make the cheese sauce extra creamy?

Substitute half the milk with heavy cream to enhance richness and silkiness in the sauce.

→ Can I use different cheeses for the sauce?

Yes, sharp cheddar combined with Gruyère or mozzarella creates a balanced, flavorful melt.

→ What seasonings elevate the flavor here?

Dijon mustard, garlic and onion powders, and paprika add subtle depth and warmth to the sauce.

→ Are there topping options to add texture?

Chopped fresh chives and toasted breadcrumbs bring a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.