Golden Creamy Stove-Top Mac

A rich, ultra-creamy macaroni and cheese made on the stovetop for the ultimate cozy comfort food, featuring a velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite whenever we craved comfort food on busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 250 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni
• Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk warmed, 170 g (6 oz) sharp cheddar cheese grated, 60 g (2 oz) Gruyère or mozzarella cheese grated, 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, 1 tbsp toasted breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly, until the mixture is bubbling but not browned.

Step 3:

Gradually pour in the warmed milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4:

Reduce heat to low. Add the grated cheddar and Gruyère (or mozzarella) cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5:

Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6:

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 7:

Serve immediately, garnished with chives and toasted breadcrumbs if desired.

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This is the go-to comfort dish for family gatherings, always met with smiles and second helpings.

Notes

For a baked version transfer to a baking dish top with breadcrumbs and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

Required Tools

Large pot colander large saucepan whisk wooden spoon or spatula grater

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (dairy) Wheat (gluten) May contain Mustard (in Dijon mustard) If using store-bought breadcrumbs check for additional allergens.

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This creamy mac and cheese recipe is perfect for a quick cozy dinner guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Elbow macaroni is ideal due to its shape, allowing the cheese sauce to cling well on every bite.

→ Can I substitute cheeses in the sauce?

Yes, sharp cheddar pairs well with Gruyère or mozzarella, adding a smooth, creamy, and tangy flavor balance.

→ How is the cheese sauce thickened without lumps?

Butter and flour form a roux cooked briefly before gradually adding warmed milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

→ What optional toppings enhance the dish?

Fresh chopped chives add brightness, while toasted breadcrumbs offer a crunchy texture contrast on top.

→ Can this dish be baked for a different texture?

Yes, transferring it to a baking dish and broiling for a few minutes creates a golden, crisp top layer.