Creamy Stovetop Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Indulge in the comfort of homemade Creamy Stovetop Cheddar Mac & Cheese. This delightful, gooey dish combines perfectly cooked elbow macaroni with a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce. It's a classic favorite that's quick to whip up, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or as a delightful side at family gatherings. Enjoy this easy, one-pot meal that everyone will love!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
elbow macaroni
16 ounces (uncooked)
butter
1/4 cup (unsalted)
all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (sifted)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
black pepper
1 dash (freshly ground)
milk
2 cups (warmed)
shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups (or 8 ounces)
Instructions
1
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 3-5 minutes to create a roux, ensuring it does not brown.
3
Add the salt and a dash of black pepper to the roux, then gradually whisk in the warmed milk, stirring well after each addition to avoid lumps.
4
Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches a bubbly, thick consistency.
5
Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6
Finally, add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the creamy cheese.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main pasta used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni.
What type of cheese is recommended?
This recipe uses 2 cups (or 8 ounces) of shredded cheddar cheese.
How do you start the cheese sauce?
Begin by melting 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
How do you make the roux for the mac and cheese?
Whisk 1/4 cup of sifted all-purpose flour into the melted butter for 3-5 minutes, ensuring it does not brown.
What seasonings are included in this dish?
The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper.
Should the milk be added cold or warm?
The milk should be warmed before gradually whisking it into the roux.
How do I avoid lumps in the cheese sauce?
Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, stirring well after each addition to ensure a smooth consistency.
When is the sauce ready for the cheese to be added?
Continue cooking and stirring the mixture until it reaches a bubbly, thick consistency.
How should the cheddar cheese be incorporated?
Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted.
To what texture should the macaroni be cooked?
The macaroni should be cooked in salted water until it is al dente.
Is this a stovetop or baked macaroni and cheese recipe?
This is a stovetop recipe, making it quick and easy to prepare without an oven.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are a total of 7 ingredients required for this creamy mac and cheese.
Can I use different types of flour?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/4 cup of sifted all-purpose flour to create the roux.
What is the final step in the instructions?
The final step is to add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is evenly coated.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a classic comfort food favorite that is delightful and gooey.
How long does it take to cook the flour and butter?
The flour and butter should be whisked together for approximately 3-5 minutes.
Is this a good recipe for a busy weeknight?
Absolutely, it is a quick meal designed for busy weeknight dinners.
Is this a one-pot meal?
While the pasta is boiled separately, it is described as an easy, one-pot meal experience.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of unsalted butter.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
The recipe calls for shredded cheddar cheese; you can use pre-shredded or shred it yourself from an 8-ounce block.
How much milk is needed for the sauce?
You will need 2 cups of warmed milk for the cheese sauce.
What is the purpose of the roux?
The roux, made from butter and flour, serves as the thickening agent for the creamy cheese sauce.
Can I add extra pepper?
The recipe suggests a dash of pepper, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Should the macaroni be drained before adding to the sauce?
Yes, once the macaroni is cooked al dente, you should drain it before mixing with the cheese sauce.
Is the cheese sauce smooth?
Yes, by adding the cheese slowly and stirring constantly, the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
What kind of butter should I use?
The ingredient list specifies using unsalted butter.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is a family favorite that everyone, including children, will love.
Can this be served as a side dish?
Yes, it works perfectly as a main course or as a delightful side at family gatherings.
How do I ensure the pasta is evenly coated?
Stir the drained macaroni well once it is added to the cheese sauce to ensure even coating.
Does the recipe require any special equipment?
No special equipment is needed other than a large pot for the pasta and a medium saucepan for the sauce.