Go Back
Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese in One Pot Delight

This Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese is a quick, creamy, and comforting dish perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use unsalted for better control over seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Acts as a thickening agent.
  • 3/4 cup Milk Full-fat preferred for richer flavor.
  • 1 cup Water Creates cooking liquid for macaroni.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Cooking directly in sauce enhances flavor.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Contributes creaminess and stretch.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Colby, Gruyere) Mix is recommended for a delightful blend.
For the Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning the dish.
  • Garlic Powder Optional, adds depth.
  • Onion Powder Optional, enhances savory notes.
  • Mustard Powder Optional, gives a slight tang.

Equipment

  • medium pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbly and fragrant. Add in 2 tablespoons of flour, and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.
  2. Gradually pour in 3/4 cup of milk while whisking, ensuring the roux dissolves smoothly. Add the remaining milk and 1 cup of water to the pot.
  3. Stir in 8 ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s well-coated in the creamy mixture.
  4. Cook the macaroni for about 9–10 minutes, stirring regularly, until tender.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Notes

This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, and can be customized with various add-ins like veggies or proteins.