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A pot of stovetop mac and cheese with a serving spoon in it.
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Stovetop Mac and Cheese

This stovetop mac and cheese is a one pot dish of tender macaroni in an ultra creamy cheese sauce. The best macaroni and cheese recipe!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 478kcal
Author Sara Welch

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

  • Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the flour, then whisk until combined, about 30 seconds.
  • Pour in the water and whisk until smooth and just thickened. 
  • Add the milk and whisk until combined. 
  • Stir in the macaroni, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika and pepper, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is done.
  • Turn the heat to low, then stir in the cheeses. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Video

Notes

  1. Skip the bags of pre-shredded cheese and grate your own. The prepared shredded cheeses often contain preservatives and anti caking agents and do not melt smoothly.
  2. This is a thick and cheesy mac! If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time until you've reached your desired consistency.

Nutrition

Calories: 478kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Cholesterol: 88mg | Sodium: 434mg | Potassium: 333mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 985IU | Calcium: 612mg | Iron: 1.3mg