Golden Home-Style Stove Top Mac and Cheese- A Cheesy Delight for Every Dinner Table

Stove top homemade mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that brings back warm memories of home-cooked meals. Made from scratch, this dish is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a quick snack, stove top homemade mac and cheese is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Starting with a box of elbow macaroni, this recipe requires just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The key to a delicious stove top homemade mac and cheese is to use a good quality cheddar cheese and a roux, which is a mixture of flour and butter that acts as a thickener. By following this recipe, you’ll be able to create a creamy, gooey dish that is sure to impress family and friends.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making stove top homemade mac and cheese:

1. Boil the pasta: Start by boiling a pot of water and adding a pinch of salt. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Melt the butter: In a separate saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
3. Make the roux: Add a tablespoon of flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously until it forms a smooth paste. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown.
4. Add milk: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Bring to a boil: Continue to whisk the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
6. Combine ingredients: Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
7. Add pasta: Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
8. Serve: Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Stove top homemade mac and cheese is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the recipe by adding different types of cheese, spices, or even vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or ground beef to the mixture before baking.

So the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting dish, give stove top homemade mac and cheese a try. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.