Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe - Creamy Comfort Food in 15 Minutes

This article provides a simple stovetop mac and cheese recipe using basic ingredients like elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, milk, and butter. It emphasizes grating cheese from a block for the creamiest sauce and offers tips for achieving perfect texture without a roux. The article also covers variations, add-ins, and compares stovetop versus baked methods to help you choose the best approach for your needs.

Simple Ingredients for Perfect Mac and Cheese

This easy mac and cheese recipe requires simple pantry ingredients.

You likely have them on hand now.

The best dishes use quality basics.

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional. Other small shapes like shells or cavatappi work too.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides the best flavor. Use a good melting cheese for creaminess.
• Milk: Whole milk makes the sauce rich and creamy. Evaporated milk also works for a no-fail smooth sauce.
• Butter: Use butter for richness in the sauce. It also keeps pasta from sticking.
• Seasonings: Salt and black pepper are essential. A pinch of dry mustard or garlic powder enhances the cheese flavor.

The most important tip involves the cheese.

Freshly grated cheese melts better.

It creates a perfectly creamy sauce every time.

Many easy recipes skip flour.

You do not need a complicated roux for a thick sauce.

These simple ingredients combine for classic comfort food.

Quick Stovetop Method Without Roux

This stovetop method makes creamy mac and cheese fast.

No roux needed means fewer steps and less cleanup.

The sauce comes together right in the pasta pot.

• Boil pasta: Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Make sauce: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add cheese: Gradually add shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
• Combine: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat evenly.
• Serve: Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

The key to success is the cheese addition.

Stirring constantly helps too.

This method takes about 15-20 minutes total.

It's perfect for busy weeknights.

You can customize the cheese blend.

Try cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for variety.

Whole milk creates the richest sauce.

Evaporated milk also works well.

It prevents scorching and keeps the sauce smooth.

This simple method delivers creamy comfort food fast.

No complicated techniques needed.

Tips for Creamiest Cheese Sauce

The creamiest mac and cheese requires attention to detail.

Small changes make a big difference in texture.

These tips ensure smooth, velvety results every time.

• Grated cheese: Always grate cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that make sauce grainy.
• Gradual addition: Add cheese slowly in small batches. Let each addition melt before adding more. This prevents clumping.
• Low heat: Keep heat low when adding cheese. High heat can cause cheese to separate and become oily.
• Butter toss: Toss hot pasta with butter before adding sauce. This creates a barrier that prevents pasta from absorbing too much liquid.
• Freshly cooked: Serve immediately after combining pasta and sauce. The sauce thickens as it cools.

Temperature control matters significantly.

Quality ingredients make a difference.

High-quality aged cheddar provides better flavor and melting properties.

Avoid pre-shredded cheese at all costs.

Consider adding cream cheese for extra silkiness.

A small amount (2 ounces) makes the sauce incredibly smooth.

Season well with salt and pepper.

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

These simple techniques transform good mac and cheese into great mac and cheese.

The difference is noticeable and worth the extra care.

Delicious Variations and Add-ins

Customize this easy mac and cheese recipe.

Add simple ingredients for new flavors and textures.

Proteins

Add cooked proteins for a complete meal.

• Crispy bacon
• Diced ham
• Shredded chicken
• Cooked sausage

Vegetables

Mix in vegetables for extra nutrition.

• Steamed broccoli florets
• Sweet peas
• Wilted spinach
• Sautéed mushrooms or peppers

Cheese Blends

Combine different cheeses for complex flavor.

American cheese makes the sauce extra creamy.

Smoked Gouda adds a smoky taste.

Toppings and Spices

Add toppings for crunch.

Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top.

For a kick, stir in sriracha, pesto, or pickled jalapeños.

A dash of garlic powder or onion powder also works well.

Baked vs Stovetop: Which to Choose

Both methods create delicious mac and cheese.

Choose based on your time and texture preferences.

Stovetop Method

This method is faster and creamier.

• Time: 15-20 minutes
• Texture: Smooth and saucy
• Cleanup: One pot
• Best for: Quick weeknight dinners

Stovetop mac and cheese stays creamier.

It does not dry out as quickly.

Baked Method

This method takes longer but has a crispy top.

• Time: 30-45 minutes
• Texture: Crispy top, saucier interior
• Cleanup: Baking dish
• Best for: Potlucks and gatherings

Baked mac and cheese stays moist longer.

Quick Comparison

For everyday meals, stovetop wins on speed.

For special occasions, baked delivers crowd-pleasing appeal.