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- 8 ounces elbow macaroni - 2 cups whole milk - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened For the best stovetop mac and cheese, start with these main ingredients. The elbow macaroni holds the creamy sauce well. Whole milk gives it a rich taste. Sharp cheddar and mozzarella blend for a smooth, melty texture. Cream cheese makes it extra creamy, creating that dreamy mouthfeel. - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) These additional flavors boost the dish. Parmesan adds a salty kick. Butter and flour help create a thick sauce. Garlic and onion powders give depth to the flavor. Adjust salt and pepper to match your taste. If you like a little heat, cayenne pepper adds just the right touch. - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping) If you enjoy a crunchy topping, breadcrumbs are perfect. They add texture and contrast to the creamy sauce. You can sprinkle them on before baking for a golden finish. This extra step makes the dish even more special. For the full experience, check out the Full Recipe and enjoy crafting this delightful dish! 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. 2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it for 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. 3. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. 1. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. 2. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. 3. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps. 4. Cook this mixture for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. 5. Lower the heat and add 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. 6. Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. 1. Season the cheese sauce with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. 2. Mix in the cooked pasta and stir until every piece is coated in cheese sauce. 3. Optional: For a crunchy topping, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. For a full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your creamy stovetop mac and cheese! To get the creamiest mac and cheese, keep your heat low when melting cheese. High heat can make cheese grainy and tough. A gentle heat helps it melt smoothly. Start by adding milk slowly. This makes sure it mixes well with the cheese. If you pour in too fast, lumps can form. Stir constantly to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Spices and herbs can really boost the taste. I often add garlic powder and onion powder. They add depth without overpowering the cheese. You can also try a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. The key is to adjust seasoning to your liking. Taste as you go, and make it yours! Serving mac and cheese is all about the look. Use individual bowls for a nice touch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. For a special finish, drizzle a little olive oil on top. This gives shine and richness to your dish. Remember, we eat with our eyes first! {{image_4}} You can play with different cheeses. Try mixing sharp cheddar with gouda for a rich flavor. If you like a little bite, add blue cheese. Just remember, blue cheese has a strong taste. A little goes a long way. For a creamy twist, use cream cheese along with your favorite cheeses. This adds richness and smoothness to the dish. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands make great alternatives. You won't lose any flavor. For those who avoid dairy, try nut-based cheese. It melts well and gives that cheesy taste. You can find these options in most stores now. To make your mac and cheese heartier, add proteins. Cooked bacon or ham gives a smoky flavor. You can also add cooked chicken for a filling meal. For veggies, consider spinach or broccoli. They add color and nutrients. Just steam or sauté them before mixing in. This step keeps the veggies bright and tasty. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To keep your creamy stovetop mac and cheese fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible. Instead, heat it in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk while stirring. This helps revive the creamy texture. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle in a dash of garlic powder or onion powder. This can make your mac and cheese taste fresh again. To freeze your mac and cheese, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it slowly on the stove. Add a bit of milk to help restore its creaminess. This way, the texture stays nice and smooth. Enjoy your creamy delight anytime! For the full recipe, check out the details. Homemade mac and cheese lasts about three to five days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure it cools down before you put it away. This helps keep the taste great and the texture intact. Yes, you can make mac and cheese ahead of time! Cook the pasta and prepare the cheese sauce as usual. Let it cool, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of milk for creaminess. Stovetop mac and cheese pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas: - Steamed broccoli - Garlic bread - Garden salad - Roasted vegetables - Grilled chicken These sides add color and flavor to your meal, making it more balanced. You can use skim milk, but it may not be as creamy. Whole milk has more fat, which helps make the sauce rich and smooth. If you want a lighter version, try adding a bit of cream cheese. This still gives you that creamy texture. Creamy stovetop mac and cheese is easy to make with simple ingredients. We covered the main components like elbow macaroni, whole milk, and various cheeses. You learned how to create a smooth cheese sauce and combine it with pasta. I shared tips for perfect texture and flavor, plus ways to tweak and store your dish. This classic meal can adapt to your tastes and stands out for any occasion. Enjoy crafting your mac and cheese masterpiece, tailored just for you!

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Indulge in Cheesy Heaven with this easy stovetop mac & cheese recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it's the ultimate comfort food. With a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese, every bite is pure bliss. Plus, you can add an optional crunchy topping for extra texture. Ready to dive into this cheesy delight?
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces elbow macaroni

2 cups whole milk

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a hint of heat)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.

    Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, taking care not to let it brown.

      Incorporate Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking vigorously to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps. Continue to cook this mixture for 3-5 minutes, or until it begins to thicken slightly.

        Blend in the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low, then add the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese into the pot. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is luxuriously smooth.

          Season to Perfection: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if desired) into the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste, mixing until fully combined.

            Combine Pasta with Sauce: Return the drained macaroni to the pot, stirring well to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.

              Optional Breadcrumb Topping: For those who enjoy a crunchy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish, evenly sprinkling breadcrumbs over the top. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

                Serve and Enjoy: Serve the mac and cheese hot from the stove or oven, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if you wish for an extra burst of color and flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 30 mins | 4-6 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Dish out the mac and cheese into individual bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for vibrancy. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add sheen and richness to the presentation.