- **Butter** - Suggested amount: 1/2 cup, for richness
- **All-Purpose Flour** - Used as a thickener; 3 tablespoons are recommended
- **Sharp Cheddar Cheese** - About 2 cups grated, ensures a strong flavor
- **Parmesan Cheese** - Optional, but enhances the overall taste; about 1/2 cup grated
- **Salt** - To taste, adjust based on your preference and type of cheese used
- **Black Pepper** - Freshly ground, adds a nice kick to the dish
- **Optional Add-ins**: Bacon bits, green onions, or garlic for extra flavor
*Note: Ensure you have a variety of cheeses on hand as mac and cheese can be made with combinations like pepper jack or a blend. Adjust quantities based on your preference!
Steps
### How to Make Creamy Stove Top Mac and Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating a delicious creamy stove-top mac and cheese doesn't require extensive time or equipment. Follow this simple yet flavorful recipe that includes step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (roux)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Optional: grated Parmesan for topping
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### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### 1. **Boil the Macaroni**
- Place a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring to a boil.
- Add 1 pound elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid.
#### 2. **Prepare the Roux**
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually stir in the milk and heavy cream while continuously stirring until the mixture thickens.
#### 3. **Add Seasonings and Cheese**
- Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder into the creamy mixture.
- Reduce heat to low and add 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
#### 4. **Combine Macaroni and Sauce**
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce along with the reserved pasta water.
- Stir gently but thoroughly to coat each piece of pasta with the cheesy sauce.
#### 5. **Adjust Texture (Optional)**
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add an additional 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk and stir well until combined.
#### 6. **Serve Hot**
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan if desired for added flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately while hot.
### Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese:
- Use whole milk for richer flavor, but you can substitute with skim or almond milk if needed.
- Ensure your roux is well mixed to avoid lumps in the final dish.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on how cheesy you prefer your mac and cheese.
- Keep an eye on the heat level as it can easily go from perfect to burnt.
### Conclusion
This creamy stove-top mac and cheese recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or quick family dinners, this dish will become a favorite in no time. Enjoy your homemade comfort food!