A bowl of creamy stovetop mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food! This homemade mac and cheese is rich, ultra-cheesy, and made in just 15 minutes—no baking required. Forget boxed mac and cheese! This one-pot recipe delivers the perfect silky, gooey, and flavorful dish every time.
Whether you’re making it for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep, this stovetop mac and cheese will quickly become your go-to recipe!
📌 Jump to sections:
✔️ How to make stovetop mac and cheese
✔️ Best cheese for mac and cheese
✔️ Common mistakes & how to fix them
✔️ Storage and reheating tips
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe
✔️ Ultra Creamy Texture – No dry mac here! The sauce is silky, smooth, and clings to every bite.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
✔️ Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved – Everyone loves homemade mac and cheese!
✔️ No Baking Required – Unlike baked mac and cheese, this stays super creamy.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as a main dish or a side for BBQ, Thanksgiving, or game nights.
📌 Pro Tip: For the best cheesy pull effect, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese.
Ingredients for the Best Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Mac and Cheese Base:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
- 4 cups water or broth (to cook the pasta)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or gouda (for extra meltiness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, but adds depth)
📌 Want extra creaminess? Stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese for a richer texture!
Looking for more cheesy recipes? Try Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese for a golden, crispy version!
How to Make Stovetop Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil 12 oz elbow macaroni in salted water or broth until al dente (about 7 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 1 minute (this removes the raw flour taste).
Step 3: Add Milk & Spices
- Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Add garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and mustard powder.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
- Lower the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted.
- Add cooked pasta and mix until coated in the cheese sauce.
📌 Serving Tip: Sprinkle crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, or extra cheese on top for extra flavor!
Want a side dish idea? Serve with Easy Roasted Garlic Potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal!
Best Cheese for Stovetop Mac and Cheese
| Cheese Type | Texture & Flavor | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar | Tangy & rich | Classic mac and cheese |
| Mozzarella | Super melty & mild | Extra gooey texture |
| Gouda | Buttery & creamy | Ultra-smooth sauce |
| Monterey Jack | Mild & creamy | Kids love it! |
| Parmesan | Salty & nutty | Extra depth of flavor |
📌 Pro Tip: Mix two or more cheeses for the best flavor!
FAQs About Stovetop Mac and Cheese
1. Can I make mac and cheese without flour?
Yes! Skip the flour and use heavy cream for a naturally thick, creamy sauce.
2. What’s the best way to reheat mac and cheese?
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.
3. Can I add protein to mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or shrimp for a protein boost.
4. How do I make it spicy?
Mix in hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for heat.
5. How do I make gluten-free mac and cheese?
Use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch for the roux.
Want more comfort food recipes? Check out Best Holiday Side Dishes for inspiration!
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Final Thoughts: The Best Stovetop Mac and Cheese in 15 Minutes
This ultra-creamy, homemade stovetop mac and cheese is everything you want in a classic comfort dish. It’s:
✅ Fast & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes
✅ Super cheesy – Made with real cheese, not powdered cheese
✅ Perfectly creamy – No baked dryness, just silky-smooth sauce
So, grab your pot and start making the best homemade mac and cheese today!