Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni)
uncooked. (equal to 1/2 lb.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon each: salt/pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese
shredded
Directions
- 1
Pro tip: Shred the cheese from a block. It will melt and taste much better than packaged shredded cheese. See notes for brand of cheese that I use.
- 2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the macaroni. Bring back up to a boil and cook according to package instructions. Set a timer to avoid overcooking. Drain once cooked.
- 3
While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to stir in the flour. Continue to stir for 1-2 minutes. Add the heavy cream/milk in splashes, stirring continuously. (If you add it too quickly you’ll “break” the roux and the sauce will be thin.)
- 4
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the seasonings and hot sauce. Reduce heat to low.
- 5
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheese. Stir continuously until smooth and combined. Add the drained macaroni and stir to combine. Serve!
Stovetop Mac and Cheese
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About this Recipe
Searching for that ultimate comforting meal that comes together in a flash and tastes like it took hours? This Stovetop Mac and Cheese recipe is your answer for a deeply satisfying, incredibly creamy dish that’s ready when you are, perfect for busy weeknights.
What makes this mac and cheese a standout is its incredible creaminess, achieved with a classic roux foundation, a generous blend of rich heavy cream and wholesome milk, and plenty of sharp cheddar cheese. The subtle hints of savory mustard powder and a dash of hot sauce elevate the flavor profile, adding complexity and a touch of warmth without ever overpowering that beloved cheesy goodness everyone craves. It's designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prepare for a bowl of pure comfort. Each bite delivers perfectly cooked macaroni coated in a velvety-smooth, rich cheese sauce that truly lives up to its 'creamy' promise. You’ll experience a delightful balance of savory flavors, brightened by a touch of tang from the mustard powder and a gentle warmth from the hot sauce, which you can adjust to your liking. This dish is designed to be effortlessly delicious and incredibly satisfying, making it a reliable staple for any busy week and always delivering that comforting, cheesy hug.
You can easily tailor this Stovetop Mac and Cheese to your family's preferences. For a milder flavor, simply reduce or omit the hot sauce. If you prefer a sharper cheese profile, opt for an extra-sharp cheddar cheese in place of a mild or medium one. A tiny dash of cayenne pepper could be added for more heat, or a sprinkle of garlic powder for an aromatic twist, though the existing onion powder provides a great base.
This Stovetop Mac and Cheese is the perfect quick and comforting meal for any busy weeknight. Serve it alongside a simple green salad to complete a wholesome family dinner.