Get ready to revolutionize your comfort food game with the most ridiculously easy mac and cheese recipe that'll make you ditch the boxed version forever! In just 20 minutes, you'll create a creamy, dreamy stovetop mac and cheese that's so simple, even a cooking novice can become a kitchen hero. This isn't just another recipe - it's your ticket to cheesy perfection that'll have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a medium-sized pot with 4-5 cups of water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the macaroni pasta to the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. Test the pasta by tasting a piece to ensure it's cooked but still slightly firm.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can help create a smoother cheese sauce later.
- Return the pot to the stove and reduce heat to low. Add butter and let it melt completely, swirling the pot to coat the bottom.
- Pour in the milk and stir gently, warming it without allowing it to boil. The milk should be warm but not scalding.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. The low heat prevents the cheese from becoming grainy or separating.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to thin it out and improve the texture.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and stir thoroughly, ensuring each pasta piece is coated with the cheese sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Remove from heat and let the mac and cheese sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional shredded cheese or fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- • The secret to ultra-creamy mac and cheese is low and slow cheese melting. Never rush the cheese sauce or you'll end up with a grainy mess! • Reserve some pasta water - it's liquid gold for creating the perfect sauce consistency • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for the smoothest texture • For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese blends like adding a bit of sharp white cheddar or some mild monterey jack • Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to thin it out • Season generously but taste as you go - you can always add more salt and pepper
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 65mg
