Stovetop Macaroni Recipe: Creamy and Quick Dish

How to Make Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Macaroni

Start by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook 2 cups of elbow macaroni until it reaches an al dente texture, which usually takes around 8 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Stovetop macaroni is a classic favorite for all ages.

Step 2: Prepare the Roux

As the macaroni cooks, you can prepare the roux. A roux, which acts as a thickening agent, combines equal parts fat (butter) and flour. Here’s how to create it:

• Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
• Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, then slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, mixing until you achieve a bubbling, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Incorporate Cheese and Macaroni

The most exciting step is adding the cheese! Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. For the best flavor and texture, fresh block cheese is recommended over pre-shredded varieties.

Drain the cooked macaroni and fold it into the cheese sauce until every noodle is well-coated. Stovetop macaroni recipes like this offer a quick and adaptable solution for weeknight meals.

Can You Bake This Mac and Cheese?

While this stovetop version is incredibly convenient, you can also bake it for a bubbly, cheesy delight! Follow these steps:

• After mixing the macaroni with the cheese sauce, pour it into a baking dish.
• Top with your favorite ingredients, such as bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, or crushed crackers.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for approximately 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

How to Store Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk or cream and warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

For long-term storage, mac and cheese can be frozen for up to six months. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Remove excess air, label with the date, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and heat as usual. Stovetop macaroni can be just as delicious after reheating!

Creative Mac and Cheese Add-Ins

This recipe serves as a blank canvas for many delicious add-ins. Here are some suggestions to elevate your mac and cheese experience:

• Onion powder, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a flavor boost.
• Different cheese blends, such as white cheddar and a four-cheese Mexican mix.
• Add-ins like diced ham and peas or chicken and broccoli for added texture and nutrition.
• A touch of yellow mustard and a topping of crushed Ritz crackers for a unique twist.