Creamy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
Looking for easy, dreamy creamy stovetop macaroni and cheese that doesnt require any time in the oven? Heres your recipe And your kids favorite.
Looking for easy, dreamy creamy stovetop macaroni and cheese that doesnt require any time in the oven? Heres your recipe And your kids favorite.
- Carbohydrate 74.8805908628881 g
- Cholesterol 45.4192708611412 mg
- Fat 17.2316518491072 g
- Fiber 2.42357600938162 g
- Protein 16.4003939718205 g
- Saturated Fat 10.0127676499076 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -8 serving (372g)
- Sodium 152.643257130165 mg
- Sugar 72.4570148535065 g
- Trans Fat 1.80381020969364 g
- Calories 522 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook macaroni until tender in boiling salted water. Drain and set aside.
- Heat butter in Dutch oven over medium-high heat until foaming. Add flour and whisk to combine, about one minute.
- Whisking constantly, add milk. Bring mixture to a boil, whisking constantly.
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer until thickened to the consistency of heavy cream, whisking occasionally.
- Take off heat and stir in cheeses and one teaspoon salt until cheese is fully melted.
- Add pasta and stir over medium low heat until heated through, 3-5 minutes.
- Ladle into warm dishes and watch the faces light up in happiness.
Creamy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese: A Weeknight Staple
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present pressure to put something healthy and appealing on the table. That's why I've developed a love affair with recipes that are both quick and comforting, and this Creamy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese perfectly fits the bill.
This recipe is my go-to when I need a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It's the kind of food that evokes warm memories of childhood – the cheesy, comforting aroma filling the kitchen, the joy on my kids’ faces as they dig in. Forget about the time-consuming oven baking; this macaroni and cheese is cooked entirely on the stovetop, making it a perfect weeknight solution. The creamy texture, achieved through a simple roux and a generous amount of cheese, is irresistible. It's the kind of dish that makes even the pickiest eaters happy. And believe me, the cleanup is a breeze too!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are pantry staples, easily accessible and readily available. I always have butter, flour, and milk on hand, and a bag of shredded cheese is a must-have in my fridge. The elbow macaroni cooks quickly, and the cheese sauce comes together in a matter of minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for those nights when you're short on time but still want to serve something special.
Beyond the Weeknight: While this recipe is a fantastic weeknight warrior, it's also versatile enough for other occasions. A slightly fancier presentation, perhaps with some added breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, would make it suitable for a casual family dinner or even a potluck. I’ve even been known to add cooked chicken or broccoli to elevate it into a more substantial meal. The possibilities are endless!
Tips and Tricks: For the best results, use good quality cheese. I particularly love Cabot sharp cheddar, but any of your favorites will do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese blends; a mix of cheddar and Gruyère, or cheddar and Monterey Jack, creates a delightful flavor profile. Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps. And remember, the key is to let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens nicely. Don't rush the process; patience will reward you with a creamy, dreamy sauce.
This macaroni and cheese recipe isn't just about feeding my family; it's about creating those cherished moments around the dinner table, where laughter and conversation flow as freely as the creamy cheese sauce. It’s about creating a sense of warmth and comfort, reminding us that even on the busiest of days, there's always time for simple pleasures and delicious food.
So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the weeknight dinner routine, reach for this recipe. You’ll be surprised at how quickly it comes together and how much your family will appreciate it. It's more than just a meal; it’s a small act of love, a comforting hug in the form of creamy, cheesy goodness. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- salt
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 5 cups milk
- 8 ounces shredded monterey jack
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar
