Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering Stovetop Mac and Cheese recipe that will have your taste buds dancing in delight. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy and decadent mac and cheese that beats any baked version out there. The secret? A hint of chicken bouillon for depth and a silky-smooth sauce crafted from a buttery roux. The combination of sharp cheddar and smoked gouda creates a flavor profile that spells comfort with every bite.

My journey with Stovetop Mac and Cheese began in a cozy kitchen, where the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese sauce became a beacon for my family. This recipe has become a staple on our table, loved for its quick preparation and unbeatable creaminess. The magic lies in the carefully selected ingredients – elbow macaroni, butter, milk, and a blend of spices, all coming together harmoniously to create a dish that promises pure satisfaction. So, gather your loved ones around, and let the cheesy goodness of this stovetop delight bring warmth and joy to your home.

Quick Benefits

• Rich and Silky Sauce: Creates a silky smooth sauce every time, thanks to the foolproof method and the roux.
• Depth of Flavor: The chicken bouillon powder adds incredible depth, while the combination of sharp cheddar and smoked gouda offers a perfect balance.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal on the table fast.
• Customizable: Easily customize by swapping different cheese combinations or adding extras like crispy bacon or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal on the table fast.
• Creamy Perfection: The sauce turns out silky smooth every time, thanks to a foolproof method that guarantees a velvety texture.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sharp cheddar and smoked gouda cheese adds depth and complexity, elevating the dish beyond standard mac and cheese.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will be drawn to the kitchen by the irresistible smell of bubbling cheese sauce – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile: Easily customizable by adding in extras like crispy bacon or steamed broccoli, making it a complete meal in one dish.
• Comfort Food Upgrade: This stovetop mac and cheese surpasses baked versions, staying creamy even as it cools, delivering ultimate comfort food satisfaction.
• Kitchen Staple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples like elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and spices, making it a convenient go-to recipe with ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients for Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

• 1 cup whole milk.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder.
• 8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni noodles.
• 2 tbsp salted butter.
• 2 tbsp all purpose flour.
• 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, freshly grated.
• Salt and pepper to taste.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated.
• 1 heaping spoonful chicken bouillon powder.

Pro Tips for Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

For a foolproof silky smooth sauce, always grate your cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded cheese. This will ensure a creamy texture and optimal meltability. Experiment with different cheese combinations to create unique flavors while maintaining the ratios provided in the recipe. Consider adding crispy bacon or steamed broccoli to turn this mac and cheese into a complete meal, perfect for busy weeknights.

To achieve that velvety sauce, practice patience when incorporating the milk into the roux. Take your time and keep whisking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth consistency. Embrace the depth of flavor by sticking to the recommended amount of chicken bouillon powder and exploring the smoky richness of smoked gouda. With these tips, you’ll master this stovetop mac and cheese recipe and create a delightful dish that your family will crave time and time again.

How to Make Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Cook macaroni in chicken bouillon water until al dente, then drain.

Step 2: Step 02

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook until light golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Step 03

Whisk in milk and cream gradually until smooth, then add seasonings.

Step 4: Step 04

Gradually stir in cheeses until fully melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Step 05

Mix in cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve while hot.

Storage Tips

To store the finished stovetop mac and cheese, allow it to cool to room temperature first. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Properly stored, stovetop mac and cheese can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain the creamy consistency.

For longer storage, stovetop mac and cheese can also be frozen. Place the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing any excess air before sealing. Frozen mac and cheese can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Remember to adjust the consistency with a little milk if needed during reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the stovetop mac and cheese recipe, you can make a few ingredient substitutions based on your preferences or what you have on hand. If you don’t have chicken bouillon powder, you can use vegetable or beef bouillon powder, or substitute with a vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor. If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to experiment with cheeses like gruyere, fontina, or even a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a unique twist while keeping the total cheese amount consistent.

If you are looking to make this dish slightly lighter, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or opt for a lower-fat milk option like 2% milk. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Additionally, if you want to enhance the flavor profile, you can add a pinch of garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or nutmeg for a subtle kick. Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs while keeping the essence of a creamy stovetop mac and cheese intact.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and creative serving suggestion, try topping your stovetop mac and cheese with crispy breadcrumbs mixed with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. The crunchy texture and herbaceous flavor will add a delightful contrast to the creamy and cheesy pasta dish. Serve it in individual ramekins for a cute and elegant presentation, perfect for a dinner party or family gathering.

To take your stovetop mac and cheese up a notch, consider serving it in mini cast iron skillets for a charming and rustic presentation. You can sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top and broil it in the oven for a few minutes until bubbly and golden brown. The individual skillets not only look adorable but also help keep the dish warm throughout your meal, making it a cozy and inviting dining experience.

FAQs for Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this stovetop mac and cheese recipe?

Avoid using pre-shredded cheese as it may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese. Freshly grated cheese will give your mac and cheese a creamier texture.

Can I customize this mac and cheese recipe with different cheese combinations?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations, but try to maintain the ratios provided in the recipe. Mixing cheeses can add complexity and depth to the flavor of your mac and cheese.

How can I make this mac and cheese a complete meal?

To make this mac and cheese a complete meal, consider adding ingredients like crispy bacon or steamed broccoli. These additions can enhance the flavor profile and add more depth to the dish.

What is the key to achieving a velvety sauce in this stovetop mac and cheese recipe?

Patience is key to achieving a velvety sauce. When adding milk, take your time and keep whisking consistently. This will help ensure a smooth and creamy consistency for your mac and cheese sauce.

Conclusion

So, next time you’re craving a bowl of comforting goodness, remember this Stovetop Mac and Cheese recipe for a quick and satisfying meal that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the rich flavors and creamy texture is a winning combination that never disappoints.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this Stovetop Mac and Cheese is sure to impress and satisfy. So grab a pot, some elbow macaroni, and your favorite cheeses, and get ready to whip up a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process of creating this easy and delightful meal, and savor every creamy bite of this classic comfort food. Stovetop Mac and Cheese – a timeless favorite that brings warmth and joy to any table.

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy stovetop mac and cheese with a silky sauce, sharp cheddar, and smoked gouda – better than baked versions, ready in just 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time5 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time20 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (1 large skillet)

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder.
• 8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni noodles.
• 2 tbsp salted butter.
• 2 tbsp all purpose flour.
• 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, freshly grated.
• Salt and pepper to taste.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated.
• 1 heaping spoonful chicken bouillon powder.

Instructions

1. Step 01: Cook macaroni in chicken bouillon water until al dente, then drain.
2. Step 02: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook until light golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 03: Whisk in milk and cream gradually until smooth, then add seasonings.
4. Step 04: Gradually stir in cheeses until fully melted and sauce is smooth.
5. Step 05: Mix in cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve while hot.