There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of homemade macaroni and cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this stove-top version is a dream come true for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when my pantry was bare except for a box of pasta and a block of cheddar. It’s now a household favorite, combining simplicity with rich, indulgent flavors. Let’s dive into why this easy homemade stove-top macaroni and cheese will soon be your go-to comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese
Get ready to fall head over heels for this velvety, cheesy delight. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds – it’s a game-changer for your dinner routine.
First, it’s incredibly quick to make. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Perfect for those last-minute meal decisions or when unexpected guests drop by.
It’s wonderfully customizable, too. Whether you prefer classic cheddar or want to mix things up with gouda or pepper jack, this recipe adapts to your cheese cravings.
Cleanup is a breeze with this one-pot recipe. No need to juggle multiple pans or strain your energy – just a single pot delivers creamy perfection.
Finally, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. Kids love the creamy texture, while adults appreciate the depth of flavor. It’s a dish that brings everyone together at the table.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this macaroni and cheese lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the creamy, luscious texture and flavor we all love.
The pasta is the foundation of this dish. Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but shells or cavatappi work equally well. Their shapes hold onto the cheese sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is coated in creamy goodness.
Cheese is the star of the show. A sharp cheddar provides that quintessential mac and cheese flavor, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Mixing in a touch of parmesan or smoked gouda can elevate the dish to gourmet levels.
The milk and cream create the base for the sauce. Full-fat milk ensures a rich consistency, while a splash of heavy cream makes it indulgently silky. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use all milk, though the sauce will be slightly less creamy.
A bit of butter adds richness, while a sprinkling of flour acts as a thickener, ensuring the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of seasonings. A pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika can transform this dish from good to great, adding depth and complexity to the flavor.
How To Make This Easy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese

Making this mac and cheese is as simple as it gets. Let me walk you through the steps to creamy, cheesy perfection.
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente – you want it tender but firm to the bite. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, just in case you need to thin the sauce later.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheese a handful at a time. This ensures a smooth, creamy sauce without any clumps. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for extra flavor.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat every noodle in cheesy bliss. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Storage Options
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing this macaroni and cheese is simple and straightforward.
Place the cooled mac and cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
For longer storage, transfer the mac and cheese to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, warm the mac and cheese on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add milk as needed to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
The versatility of this recipe is part of its charm. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or even shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a nice kick.
- Go veggie: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Try different cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack, fontina, or gruyere for a unique twist.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to adapt this recipe for dietary needs.
The beauty of homemade macaroni and cheese is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences. Have fun experimenting and find the combination that makes it perfect for your table.
PrintEasy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
This easy homemade stove top macaroni and cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy dish packed with flavor. A quick and simple comfort food for busy weeknights or weekend indulgence!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Toss in the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda.
- Add cooked bacon or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
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