Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Nothing beats the comfort of a creamy stovetop mac and cheese! This recipe is quick, rich, and full of cheesy goodness — perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound cavatappi shells (or elbow macaroni)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup milk (any kind, I used 2%)
- 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. - Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creates a roux — the base for your cheese sauce. (Tip: For extra flavor, add garlic powder or paprika here.) - Add Milk and Cream
Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to bubble and thickens slightly. - Melt the Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Mix until fully melted and smooth. - Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add drained pasta into the cheese sauce and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of extra milk. - Rest and Serve
Let the mac and cheese sit for about 5 minutes before serving so the sauce clings to the noodles.
Pro Tips
- Cheese Swap: Try Parmesan, cheddar jack, or Gruyère for extra depth.
- Spice It Up: A dash of paprika, cayenne, or nutmeg adds more complexity.
- Make Ahead: Prepare pasta and sauce separately, then combine just before serving for ultimate creaminess.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 468 | 12g | 36g | 31g | 1g | 3g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
