There's nothing quite like the creamy, cheesy comfort of homemade macaroni and cheese made right on your stovetop. Perfectly cooked pasta swirled in a velvety cheese sauce is the ultimate weeknight meal that everyone loves.

I first discovered this recipe during a hectic week when boxed mac and cheese just wasn’t cutting it. With a few pantry staples and about 20 minutes of cooking, I created a dish that quickly became a family favorite. It's easy, quick, and so much better than store-bought! Let’s dive into why this recipe will be a hit in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Stove Top Mac and Cheese
Get ready to fall in love with the creamiest, dreamiest mac and cheese that comes together in no time. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly quick and easy. You’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for when time isn’t on your side.
Another reason to love it? The flavor is unbeatable. The combination of sharp cheddar and creamy milk creates a sauce so luscious, you’ll forget all about the powdered stuff in a box.
It’s also super customizable. Add cooked bacon, steamed broccoli, or even some spicy jalapeños to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!
Finally, this dish is budget-friendly. Using just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that’s easy on your wallet and big on taste.
Ready to get started? Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this mac and cheese truly irresistible.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this stove top mac and cheese lies in its simplicity. A few key ingredients come together to create something magical.
- Macaroni Pasta: The star of the dish! Classic elbow macaroni works perfectly, but feel free to swap it for shells, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. The ridges and shapes help to hold onto the cheesy sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is where the bold, cheesy flavor comes from. Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother and tastes better than pre-shredded options.
- Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use 2% milk, but avoid skim milk as it may result in a thinner sauce.
- Butter and Flour: These two form the base of a roux, which thickens the sauce to that perfect, silky consistency.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- Optional Add-Ins: Garlic powder, paprika, or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile if you're feeling adventurous.
For equipment, you’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a medium saucepan for the cheese sauce. Let’s move on to the step-by-step process to bring this dish to life.
How to Make Easy Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese

Making this macaroni and cheese is as easy as it gets. Let me guide you through the steps:
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Create the Sauce
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, a little at a time, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce at this stage.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained pasta to the pot and pour the cheese sauce over it. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness.
Serve immediately and watch as it disappears faster than you can say "cheesy perfection!"
Storage Options
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), storing this mac and cheese is a breeze.
- Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This mac and cheese recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are some fun ways to mix it up:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, or diced ham for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of sriracha to spice things up.
- Cheese Swap: Mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour for a gluten-free alternative to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
Experiment with these ideas to create your perfect bowl of mac and cheese. You might just discover a new family favorite!
There you have it: a simple, delicious recipe for stove top macaroni and cheese that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging in some well-deserved comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your household. Enjoy!
PrintEasy Homemade Stove Top Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
Make this easy homemade stove top macaroni and cheese recipe for a quick, creamy, and flavorful meal. Simple ingredients, ready in minutes!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add ¼ cup of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.
- Best served fresh; leftovers can be reheated with a splash of milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 440mg
Leave a Reply