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Make creamy stovetop mac and cheese fast with just 20 minutes. Use fresh shredded cheese, butter, flour, and milk for the best sauce. Add extras like bacon or jalapeños if you want. Store leftovers up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
Question | Answer |
|---|---|
How long does it take to make stovetop mac and cheese? | It takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. |
What kind of cheese works best? | Sharp cheddar is best, but try Gouda or Gruyère for more flavor. |
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? | No, it has additives that stop smooth melting. |
How do I store leftover mac and cheese? | Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. |
How can I make the sauce extra creamy? | Add cream cheese, mustard powder, or a mix of cheeses. |
What You Need for Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar works best)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of mustard powder or cream cheese for extra creaminess
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt. Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook until sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Total time is around 20 minutes. Don’t let the sauce boil after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
Tips for the Creamiest Cheese Sauce
- Use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded won't melt smoothly.
- Low heat is key. High heat causes cheese to clump.
- Add a splash of milk if sauce gets too thick.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even melt.
- For extra creaminess, mix in 1-2 tbsp cream cheese or a bit of mustard.
Want more flavor? Try blending cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère or Monterey Jack with cheddar.
Optional Add-Ins to Upgrade Your Dish
- Cooked bacon bits for smoky flavor
- Sautéed onions or garlic for depth
- Steamed broccoli or peas for color and nutrition
- Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Breadcrumbs on top before serving for crunch
- Protein boost with shredded chicken or ham
Feel free to mix in different cheeses like blue cheese, pepper jack or fontina for unique flavors.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days
- Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess
- Reheat on stovetop over low heat, stirring often
- Microwave option: heat in 30-second intervals, stir in between
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating
Never reboil. Keep heat low to prevent sauce from breaking.