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Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 5 reviews
  • Author: Evelyn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This creamy stovetop mac and cheese recipe delivers a rich, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for family meals or gatherings. Made with elbow macaroni and a blend of sharp cheddar and American cheeses, it offers the classic taste and creamy texture from scratch in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Macaroni

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 5 cups whole milk
  • 24 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces American cheese, sliced and chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside to be combined later with the cheese sauce.
  2. Make Roux: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown and starts to smell nutty, indicating the flour is cooked through.
  3. Add Milk: Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly whisk in the whole milk, making sure to whisk continuously to keep the mixture smooth and lump-free. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. Melt Cheese: Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and chopped American cheeses in small handfuls, whisking well after each addition to fully melt and incorporate before adding more. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta evenly and break up any clumps. Serve the mac and cheese immediately for best creamy texture.
  6. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Notes

  • Use whole milk to achieve the creamiest texture; avoid low-fat milk for best results.
  • Freshly shredding the cheddar cheese helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
  • Adjust salt and pepper seasoning according to your taste preferences.
  • For added flavor, consider stirring in a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the cheese sauce.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the best creamy consistency; reheated mac and cheese may thicken and require a splash of milk.

Find it online: http://evelynscooking.com/creamy-stovetop-mac-and-cheese-recipe/