Print
pot with wooden spoon in macaroni and cheese

Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

  • Author: Dan
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 Servings 1x

This 15-minute stovetop mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Skip the box and make this one-pot mac and cheese instead!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbows, shells or other small tube shaped pasta
  • 6 ounces cheddar cheese (see post above for some other cheese options)
  • 6 ounces American cheese (sliced from the deli)
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons butter (optional but adds a rich flavor)

Instructions

  1. Boil a large pot of water for the pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  2. Add the milk and cream to the same pot. Bring to a simmer and then stir in cheese and seasonings. Once the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth, stir in the cooked macaroni and taste for seasonings.
  3. Serve immediately or keep in a slow cooker on the keep warm or low setting.

Recipe Notes

Store: Store leftover mac and cheese in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Reheat leftovers in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce.

  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: stove top
  • Cuisine: American