Craving the ultimate comfort food that'll make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds? Look no further than this mind-blowingly creamy Stove Top Mac and Cheese! In just 25 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a jaw-dropping, cheesy masterpiece that puts boxed mac and cheese to absolute shame. Whether you're a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves pure culinary magic, this recipe is your ticket to instant dinner hero status!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Once the butter is completely melted, slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth base.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander, shaking off excess water.
- Add the drained macaroni directly into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every pasta piece evenly.
- Season with salt and black pepper, stirring to distribute the seasonings throughout the mac and cheese.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- • Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor and smoothest texture - pre-shredded cheese can make your sauce grainy • Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation and ensure a silky-smooth sauce • Stir continuously while making the cheese sauce to prevent burning or sticking • For extra richness, you can substitute half-and-half for milk • Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente to prevent mushy mac and cheese • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency • For added depth, consider mixing in a small amount of mustard powder or garlic powder to the cheese sauce • Serve immediately for the best texture and melty cheese experience
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
