When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of Stovetop Mac and Cheese. This hommade recipe is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly quick to make, requiring just one pot and less than 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting meal anytime, this recipe will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow noodles (about 12 oz)
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons butter, sliced
1 oz cream cheese, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional)
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Directions:
Cook the Noodles: In a large pot over high heat, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow noodles and cook until al dente.
Drain and Return to Pot: Drain noodles well and return to the pot over medium-low heat.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in shredded cheeses, sour cream, butter, cream cheese, garlic, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is melted and well combined.
Serve: Serve immediately.
Serving Tips:
Garnish Options: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A dusting of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the dish.
Side Dishes: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.
Bread Pairing: Pair with a slice of garlic bread or a warm, crusty roll to soak up any extra cheese sauce.
Protein Add-Ons: For a heartier meal, top with grilled chicken, crumbled bacon, or sautéed shrimp.
Family Style: Serve the mac and cheese in a large, warmed serving dish to keep it hot longer. Provide extra cheese and toppings on the side for guests to customize their portions.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Although mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it is tightly sealed. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat in short intervals (30-60 seconds), stirring in between each interval until heated through. Add a bit of milk if it appears too thick.
Oven: For a larger quantity, reheat in the oven. Place mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Stir halfway through and add a little milk if needed.
Tips for Maintaining Creaminess:
Add Liquid: When reheating, adding a small amount of milk, cream, or broth can help restore the creamy texture.
Low Heat: Reheat slowly over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming grainy.
Fresh Cheese: For a fresher taste, sprinkle a bit of freshly shredded cheese on top before serving again.
Preventing Dryness:
Cover Properly: Ensure your storage container is well-sealed to prevent the mac and cheese from drying out in the refrigerator.
Use Butter or Cream: Adding a small amount of butter or cream when reheating can help maintain the dish’s richness and prevent it from becoming dry or clumpy.
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FAQs:
Can I make this mac and cheese recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this mac and cheese in advance. To do so, cook the mac and cheese as directed, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture, or reheat in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How can I make this mac and cheese recipe spicier?
If you prefer a spicier mac and cheese, you can add ingredients like a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a teaspoon of paprika to the cheese sauce. For extra flavor, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preference.
What should I do if my mac and cheese sauce turns out grainy?
Graininess in the sauce usually occurs due to cooking the cheese at too high a temperature or using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. To fix this, gently reheat the sauce over low heat, stirring continuously. Adding a small amount of milk or cream can help smooth out the texture. If using pre-shredded cheese, switch to freshly grated cheese in future recipes for better results.
Can I freeze leftover mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze leftover mac and cheese. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the mac and cheese overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened during freezing. For even reheating, stir occasionally while warming.
Conclusion:
This stovetop mac and cheese recipe is the epitome of quick and satisfying comfort food. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly day, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Enjoy the deliciousness in every bite and savor the simplicity of a meal made in under 20 minutes.
📖 Recipe:
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Stovetop Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This stovetop mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich and creamy cheeses with perfectly cooked elbow noodles. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this quick mac and cheese recipe that will become a family favorite. Keywords: stovetop mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, one-pot mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow noodles (about 12 oz)
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
4 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons butter, sliced
1 oz cream cheese, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional)
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot over high heat, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow noodles and cook until al dente.
- Drain and Return to Pot: Drain noodles well and return to the pot over medium-low heat.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in shredded cheeses, sour cream, butter, cream cheese, garlic, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is melted and well combined.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Notes
Cheese Selection: Freshly shredded cheese is best for melting. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses that contain anti-caking agents.
Pasta Alternatives: Try different pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi for variety.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Mix-Ins: Incorporate cooked bacon, steamed broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 753 kcal per serving
