This Simple Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made easy. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly smooth, it’s a no-fuss recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes on your stovetop. Ideal for weeknight dinners or whenever you need a warm, satisfying dish, this macaroni and cheese strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Comfort – Rich, creamy cheese sauce coats every bite of tender macaroni.
Quick & Easy – Ready in less than 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup thanks to stovetop preparation.
Customizable – Add veggies, spices, or protein to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1½ cups low-fat milk
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp light butter
- 1½ cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add mustard powder if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni back to the pot and stir until well coated with the cheese sauce.
5. Serve Warm
Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Tips for Success
- Make a Smooth Roux – Cook the flour and butter well to avoid a floury taste.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – It melts better and creates a creamier sauce.
- Add Veggies or Protein – Stir in steamed broccoli or cooked chicken for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works
The stovetop method lets you control the sauce consistency and ensures every macaroni piece is luxuriously coated. Using reduced-fat dairy keeps it lighter while still delivering rich flavor, making this a perfect comfort dish with a balanced approach.
This Simple Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese is a quick, creamy, and satisfying meal perfect for any day you crave classic comfort food. Easy to customize and made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a family-friendly favorite that’s ready in minutes.
Simple Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy, Comforting, and Quick
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servings5
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kcalA creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese made on the stovetop with a smooth cheese sauce and tender pasta. Quick, comforting, and easy to customize, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime comfort food cravings strike.
Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni
1½ cups low-fat milk
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp light butter
1½ cups reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes. - Add Cheese and Seasonings
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add mustard powder if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. - Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni back to the pot and stir until well coated with the cheese sauce. - Serve Warm
Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture.
Notes
- Make a Smooth Roux – Cook the flour and butter well to avoid a floury taste.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – It melts better and creates a creamier sauce.
Add Veggies or Protein – Stir in steamed broccoli or cooked chicken for a complete meal.