Creamy Stove-Top Macaroni & Cheese with Honey Mustard Twist
This Creamy Stove-Top Macaroni & Cheese is an enticing twist on the traditional 'mac and cheese' that brings a rich, velvety dish to your table without the fuss of a roux or bechamel. Combining the creamy smoothness of Velveeta with a hint of Dijon mustard and a touch of honey, this recipe introduces a delightful depth of flavor. Perfect for those nights when you need a comforting meal that's quick to prepare but doesn't compromise on taste. Whether it’s a solo indulgence or shared experience, this dish will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
2
Servings
600
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
macaroni
1 1/2 cups (cooked al dente)
cornstarch
1 tablespoon (mixed with milk to create slurry)
milk
1 cup (divided)
thickened cream
1/2 cup (room temperature)
Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon (none)
honey
1 teaspoon (none)
shredded Velveeta cheese
1 cup (none)
salt and pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Prepare the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain. Do not rinse the pasta to maintain its starch, which helps the sauce adhere better.
2
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of the milk until you have a smooth slurry with no lumps.
3
In a separate mixing jug, whisk together the remaining milk, thickened cream, and Dijon mustard until thoroughly mixed.
4
Pour the milk and cream mixture into a saucepan, set over medium heat, and warm it until it's just about to boil. Stir gently to prevent scalding.
5
Once warmed, add the honey and stir until well combined.
6
Begin incorporating the shredded Velveeta cheese into the warm cream mixture, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
7
Take the saucepan off the heat, and gradually add the cornstarch slurry. Continue to stir as the sauce thickens, ensuring it becomes velvety smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8
Gently fold the cooked, drained macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated in the luscious sauce.
9
Serve immediately, garnishing as desired or enjoy it by itself, straight from the comforting confines of a warm bowl.
Nutrition Information
27.5g
Fat
75g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary flavor profile of this macaroni and cheese recipe?
The dish features a creamy, velvety cheese sauce with a unique 'Honey Mustard Twist' provided by Dijon mustard and a touch of honey.
Does this recipe require making a roux or bechamel?
No, this stove-top recipe avoids the fuss of a traditional roux or bechamel by using a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of shredded Velveeta cheese for maximum creaminess.
How much macaroni is needed?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of macaroni, cooked al dente.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?
No, you should not rinse the pasta. Maintaining the starch on the macaroni helps the cheese sauce adhere better.
What are the nutritional values per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 600 calories, 27.5g of fat, 75g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein.
What is the purpose of the cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch is mixed with milk to create a slurry that thickens the sauce into a velvety consistency.
How much milk and cream are required?
The recipe uses 1 cup of milk (divided) and 1/2 cup of thickened cream at room temperature.
When should I add the Dijon mustard?
Whisk the Dijon mustard into the milk and cream mixture before heating it in the saucepan.
How much honey is included in the twist?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of honey to add a subtle sweetness.
What is the best way to heat the milk and cream?
Set the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture until it is just about to boil, stirring gently to prevent scalding.
When do I incorporate the Velveeta cheese?
Begin adding the shredded Velveeta once the milk and cream mixture has been warmed and the honey has been stirred in.
At what point is the cornstarch slurry added?
The cornstarch slurry is added after taking the saucepan off the heat to ensure the sauce thickens smoothly.
Can I adjust the seasoning of the sauce?
Yes, you should taste the thickened sauce and adjust with salt and pepper as needed before adding the pasta.
How do I combine the pasta and the sauce?
Gently fold the cooked, drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is thoroughly coated.
Is this a quick meal option?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and easy recipe, perfect for busy nights.
Is this dish baked in the oven?
No, this is a stove-top recipe that is served immediately after mixing the pasta and sauce.
What is the texture of the finished sauce?
The sauce is described as rich, velvety, and luscious.
Can this recipe be prepared for one person?
Yes, while it serves two, it is noted as a great choice for a solo indulgence.
How many total ingredients are needed?
There are 8 ingredients total: macaroni, cornstarch, milk, thickened cream, Dijon mustard, honey, Velveeta, and salt/pepper.
What temperature should the thickened cream be?
The recipe recommends using thickened cream at room temperature.
Is the Velveeta cheese shredded or cubed?
The ingredients list specifically calls for shredded Velveeta cheese.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include comfort food, easy recipe, quick meal, cheesy pasta, velveeta, and honey mustard.
Does the recipe contain fiber information?
No, fiber information is not provided for this specific recipe.
What is the amount of Dijon mustard used?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
How should the macaroni be cooked?
The macaroni should be cooked al dente according to the package instructions.
Is salt and pepper included in the ingredient count?
Yes, salt and pepper are listed as the eighth ingredient to be used to taste.
What category does this recipe fall into?
While the category field is empty, the tags identify it as comfort food and a quick meal.
How should the dish be garnished?
You can garnish as desired or simply enjoy it straight from the bowl.