Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe. It's rich, cheesy, and made in one pot, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. With its smooth and velvety sauce enveloping tender pasta, this homemade dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave everyone wanting more.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-21T02:21:45.121Z

This Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe is truly a go-to comfort food. Whether you're feeding a family or just indulging yourself, it never disappoints!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        One-pot meal for easy cleanup
Rich and creamy flavor that melts in your mouth
Customizable with your favorite cheeses and add-ins

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of mac and cheese. This Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe encapsulates that warmth with its rich and velvety texture. It's an ideal dish for cold evenings or when you're simply seeking solace in food. With each bite, you'll experience a combination of creamy cheese and tender pasta that warms you from the inside out.

This recipe shines not only in flavor but also in versatility. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or just for yourself, this one-pot meal adapts to your needs. You can easily scale up the servings or even downsize for a cozy solo dinner. Plus, the single-pot aspect means less time cleaning up after a delicious meal.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best features of this Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe is its adaptability. While the classic combination of sharp cheddar cheese and elbow macaroni is always a hit, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Consider adding a bit of Gruyère for nuttiness or mozzarella for extra gooeyness. Cheeses like pepper jack can also bring a delightful kick to the dish.

Beyond cheese, you can elevate your mac and cheese with add-ins such as crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables like broccoli or peas, or even protein options like shredded chicken. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike. Tailor each batch to satisfy every family member's palate and create new favorites along the way.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese isn't just a weeknight staple; it's also perfect for parties, potlucks, and gatherings. Its creamy texture and enticing aroma make it a crowd-pleaser. You can serve it as a side dish or make it the star of the meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread to round out the dining experience.

Meal prepping with this recipe is another fantastic idea. Prepare a large batch earlier in the week for convenient, microwaveable lunches, or freeze portions for an easy dinner solution. No matter the occasion, this dish guarantees satisfaction.

Ingredients

Mac and Cheese Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite toppings or extra spices!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, then gradually stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious homemade mac and cheese!

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

To achieve the creamiest results, make sure to use a combination of cheeses. Combining a sharp cheese with a creamier variety results in a richer flavor profile and more satisfying consistency. Also, remember to add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly to avoid clumps, ensuring a smooth and velvety sauce.

Another tip is to cook the pasta until it's just al dente. This ensures that it doesn’t become mushy when you mix it with the cheese sauce. Remember that it will continue cooking a bit when combined, so you want it to maintain a slight firmness.

Serving Suggestions

For a touch of elegance, serve your Stovetop Creamy Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins, topped with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of additional cheese before broiling until golden. This extra crunch provides a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta. Alternatively, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color.

Pair your mac and cheese with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. The lightness of the salad beautifully contrasts with the richness of the dish, creating a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will actually deepen as the dish sits. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, add a splash of milk when reheating to restore some creaminess and prevent the pasta from drying out.

For even longer storage, you can freeze portions of mac and cheese. Just make sure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to consume, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this mac and cheese gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat gently.