Creamy Stove-Top Mac & Cheese
Forget the blue box. This homemade version is just as fast but infinitely creamier and cheesier.
Details
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- 1
Cook pasta in salted water. Drain.
- 2
In the same pot, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
- 3
Gradually whisk in milk. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- 4
Remove from heat. Stir in spices and cheese until melted.
- 5
Fold in cooked pasta.
- 6
Serve immediately while gooey.
About This Recipe
Macaroni and cheese holds a cherished place in the tapestry of American comfort food, a dish synonymous with home and nostalgia. While its origins trace back to European aristocracy, popularized in America by Thomas Jefferson, the stove-top rendition has become a weeknight superhero. This particular recipe masterfully delivers an ultra-creamy and deeply cheesy experience in mere minutes, far surpassing any boxed alternative. The secret lies in a carefully crafted roux – the simple act of cooking butter and flour together to form a paste, then gradually whisking in milk, creating a satiny béchamel. Adding the shredded sharp cheddar off the heat ensures a smooth, luscious melt without clumping. The subtle additions of mustard powder and paprika aren't just for color; they enhance the cheese's savory notes, making the flavor more complex and irresistible. While delicious on its own, a sprinkle of fresh chives or a dash of hot sauce can elevate it further. For a fun twist, consider stirring in some cooked ham or peas. This mac and cheese isn't just a side dish; it's a hearty main course, perfect alongside a crisp green salad to balance its richness.
Tips & Tricks
- • Always grate your own cheese for the smoothest sauce; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Also, melt the cheese off the heat to prevent it from seizing and becoming clumpy.
- • For an even richer flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or a mix of cheddar with a complementary cheese like Monterey Jack or gruyere. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a subtle, warming kick.
- • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore its original creaminess.
- • Serve this comforting mac and cheese as a satisfying main dish paired with a simple side salad and some crusty bread, or as an indulgent side for grilled meats like BBQ chicken or pulled pork.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)