Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, cheesy stovetop dish made with milk, butter, and cheddar. It’s a comforting side that kids love and a quick alternative to baked mac and cheese.
I adore a rich, cheesy stovetop macaroni and cheese. Pasta and cheddar are a perfect match — simple, satisfying, and nostalgic. This recipe keeps things easy by skipping eggs and flour, relying instead on milk, butter, and sharp cheddar for a silky sauce.
How to Make the Best Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
This stovetop mac and cheese is simple and delicious without the need for thickening agents like flour or eggs. I used to add those, but they can mute the cheese flavor and complicate the process. Below you’ll find a straightforward method that produces an ooey-gooey, creamy result kids and adults both enjoy.
When I was a teenager I often babysat younger siblings and cousins. Picky kids tend to prefer the soft, saucy stovetop version rather than a firm baked casserole, so that’s what I made. It’s quick, forgiving, and perfect served alongside chicken tenders or other kid-friendly mains.
Growing up in the 90s, boxed macaroni and cheese commercials were everywhere, and those memories stick. Whether you prefer a scratch version or a convenient boxed product, the core idea is comfort and cheese. For the freshest flavor I prefer grating a block of cheddar, but pre-shredded cheese works fine if you want to save time.
Block cheese often melts smoother and tastes fresher, but either option is acceptable — use what you have and aim for a sharp cheddar to give the dish a bold, cheesy profile.
This Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese is the Best!
This stovetop mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and perfect as a side or a main for a quick weeknight meal. Cheddar is my go-to since it’s familiar and flavorful, but the recipe is flexible — mix in other cheeses if you like. I use whole milk and a good amount of sharp cheddar so the sauce stays cheesy and not overly thin.
Give this recipe a try; it’s kid-approved and ready in about 30 minutes. Adjust seasonings and cheese blends to suit your taste, and serve hot for the best, creamiest experience.
Enjoy!
PBJ~
The Best Stovetop Macaroni & Cheese Recipe
4.7 from 11 reviews
- Author: PhillyBoyJay
- Prep Time: 20 Mins
- Cook Time: 10 Mins
- Total Time: 30 Mins
- Yield: 6
- Category: Starch Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy, cheesy stovetop macaroni and cheese made with milk, butter, and cheddar. Perfect for kids and a comforting alternative to baked mac and cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1–1/2 Tbs butter
- 3 qts water
- 1–1/2 cups whole milk
- 16 oz sharp shredded cheddar cheese
- 1–1/2 tsps salt, or to taste
- 2 tsps sugar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the macaroni and cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the milk, butter, cheese, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Stir frequently and cook about 8 minutes, until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Allow the macaroni and cheese to simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors, then serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
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