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Creamy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

creamy stovetop macaroni and cheese - featured image
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This easy homemade mac and cheese is pure comfort food, featuring tender pasta coated in a luxuriously smooth, cheesy sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese, grated (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • Hot sauce or pinch of cayenne (optional)
  • Cooked bacon bits, peas, or sautéed mushrooms (optional add-ins)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Drain the pasta and set aside (do not rinse).
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter.
  5. Whisk in all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until a smooth paste forms.
  6. Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking continuously.
  7. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  8. Add cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
  9. Reduce heat to low. Stir in sharp cheddar and Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese (if using) until melted and sauce is silky.
  10. Mix in Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add nutmeg or cayenne if desired.
  11. Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
  12. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Add more milk when reheating leftovers.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese. Low and slow heat prevents the sauce from becoming grainy. Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by swapping pasta, flour, and cheese. Add-ins like bacon, peas, or mushrooms boost flavor and nutrition.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, kid-friendly, cheese sauce, homemade mac and cheese

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/creamy-stovetop-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-in-20-minutes/