Name: Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups water; 4 cups milk; 1 pound elbow pasta, uncooked; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground mustard; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 tablespoon olive oil

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The warm aroma of melting cheese and gently simmering pasta fills the kitchen, instantly wrapping you in a comforting embrace. As the rich sauce clings to the al dente noodles, you can’t help but smile, knowing that in just 20 minutes, a bowl of creamy bliss is on the way. There’s something undeniably nostalgic about this Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar that takes me back to family dinners; it’s like a cozy hug from childhood, when every meal felt special. Whether it’s a rainy day, a quick weeknight dinner, or a gathering of friends, this dish is your go-to for effortless comfort food that everyone loves. So grab your apron, and let’s whip up something delicious that’s sure to please.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Imagine indulging in an irresistible plate of Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar, where each bite is creamy, cheesy perfection. The best part? You can whip it up in under 20 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy evenings. Not to mention, the combination of three different cheeses elevates the flavor to new heights! This delightful dish looks as good as it tastes, and it’s ideal for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive parties. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it unique!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: You can have this cheesy goodness ready in just 20 minutes!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates an explosion of cheesy delight.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The glowing cheese and crispy panko topping make each serving a visual treat.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a comforting snack, a delightful side dish, or a mouthwatering main course.
Diet-Friendly Options: Consider gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese for tasty alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 tablespoons butter: This is your base for the velvety cheese sauce. Unsalted butter is recommended to control the saltiness.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: It helps thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy quality. For a gluten-free version, you can use cornstarch.
3 cups water: This is used to cook the pasta. Feel free to replace it with chicken or vegetable broth for extra flavor.
4 cups milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; however, you can use 2% or even a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat for a lighter option.
1 pound elbow pasta, uncooked: Classic elbow macaroni is perfect, but feel free to substitute with shells or cavatappi.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a subtle depth of flavor. Fresh minced garlic also works beautifully.
1 teaspoon ground mustard: Mustard powder enhances the overall cheese flavor. You can leave it out if you prefer a milder taste.
1 teaspoon salt: Adjust it to taste, especially if using broth as it may already contain salt.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: This adds a hint of warmth. White pepper is a great alternative for a milder flavor.
4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese: The star of this dish! Grate your cheese fresh for the best melting experience.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty yet nutty flavor that complements the cheddar beautifully.
1/4 cup mozzarella cheese: It brings that luscious stretchiness to the mix. Feel free to add more for extra gooeyness!
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: These create a lovely crunchy topping. Use gluten-free panko for a dietary alternative.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For the breadcrumb topping, infusing even more delicious flavor.
1/4 teaspoon paprika: This gives a beautiful hue and a slight smokiness. You can substitute it with cayenne for some heat.
1/2 tablespoon olive oil: Used to toast the breadcrumbs, giving them a lovely golden color.

How to Make Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Melt and Whisk: Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling gently, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste. This forms a roux that will thicken your cheese sauce. Gradually pour in the water while whisking, ensuring a smooth mixture. Then, add the milk and whisk until everything is combined and creamy.

Add the Pasta: Now, it’s time to add your uncooked elbow pasta, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. This is crucial because it allows the pasta to cook evenly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 9-10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure a creamy sauce.

Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the white cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce becomes lush and creamy. The smell at this point is simply irresistible! If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk to loosen it and achieve your desired consistency.

Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once warmed, add the breadcrumb mix and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring until the breadcrumbs are golden and fragrant. This step adds the perfect crunch to your mac and cheese!

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon your creamy mac and cheese into bowls and top generously with the toasted panko breadcrumb mixture. This adds a delightful contrast in texture, making every bite enjoyable. Serve warm and watch it disappear as family and friends dive in!

Storing & Reheating

To store your leftover mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for a couple of hours, but ideally, refrigerate it and consume within 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems a bit dry upon reheating, stir in a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid clumping by adding cheese gradually and stirring continuously.
For the best flavor, use freshly grated cheese; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
If your sauce feels too thick, a bit of extra milk can work wonders to loosen it up.
Spice it up by adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or some fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of freshness.
To make ahead, prepare everything up to the point of adding the cheese and store it in the fridge. When ready, just reheat and add cheese.

As you dive into this fabulous recipe, remember that cooking is all about enjoyment and making it your own. From experimenting with different cheeses to adding your favorite mix-ins, this Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar is a great canvas for creativity. Embrace the process, and most importantly, don’t forget to savor each creamy bite. Your taste buds will thank you!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with white cheddar, feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add exciting variations to your dish. Just ensure that whatever cheese you choose melts well for a creamy texture.

Is this mac and cheese gluten-free?

Yes, it can be! Simply replace the elbow pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Most brands available today offer great alternatives that cook similarly to traditional pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may cook differently.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you are ready to enjoy it, just heat it up on the stovetop, stir in the cheese, and proceed with your toasted breadcrumb topping!

How do I prevent my mac and cheese from being bland?

To enhance the flavor, don’t skimp on the seasoning! Adjust the salt to your taste, add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or a pinch of cayenne if you enjoy some heat. Additionally, using quality, flavorful cheeses will ensure your dish is anything but bland!