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4.35 from 20 votes

Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: homemade mac and cheese recipe, Stovetop mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese recipe
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Kathryn Donangelo

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 1/2 cups whole or reduced-fat milk divided
  • 1 pound elbow pasta
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened

Instructions

  • Heat a large pot on medium heat and melt butter. Add flour and whisk together until thickened, about 1 minute.
  • Slowly add in the water and milk. Continue to whisk together until thickened and smooth.
  • Add the pasta, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir and let the pasta cook for 12-18 minutes or until al dente (cooked but firm to the bite). Most of the liquid will absorb into the pasta.
  • Stir in the cheeses and cream cheese continuously until all the cheese has melted. The mac and cheese should be creamy, smooth, and cooked through. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Recipe Notes:
  • To-Store: Mac and Cheese makes the best leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or warm in the oven for a few minutes until warmed and cheese has melted.
  • To-Freeze: This recipe freezes well and it’s always a good idea to have Mac and cheese on hand at any time. Prepare the Mac and cheese according to the recipe directions and cool completely. Place in a freezer-friendly dish or airtight container and freeze up to 3 months. When ready to bake, bake frozen at 350 degrees F for 70-80 minutes, or bake thawed at 325 degrees F for 20-30 minutes. Make sure the Mac and cheese is warmed throughout.