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Three ingredients. That’s all you need for this incredibly satisfying stovetop mac and cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when comfort food cravings strike, this simple recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy delight in just over 10 minutes. No need for complex ingredients or endless steps—just straightforward, delicious mac and cheese.
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- Cuisine: North American
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in about 10 minutes.
- Minimal cleanup with just one pot to wash.
- Customizable with your choice of cheese.
- Rich, creamy taste that satisfies cravings.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces (170 g) elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice for mac and cheese, its shape holds the sauce perfectly.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors. Add to the water for cooking the pasta.
- 6 ounces (180 ml) evaporated milk: Provides creaminess without watering down the sauce, a perfect dairy choice for stovetop mac and cheese. Substitute with whole milk for a lighter version, but reduce liquid slightly.
- 6 ounces (170 g) grated mild or medium cheddar cheese, or any good melting cheese, such as Fontina, Gruyère, or Jack: Gives the dish a smooth, cheesy texture. Try different blends for varied flavors.
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Place the macaroni in a medium saucepan or skillet, adding just enough cold water to cover it. Sprinkle a pinch of salt into the water to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Heat on high, stirring frequently. This prevents the pasta from sticking together and ensures even cooking. Continue until almost all the water is absorbed and the pasta is just shy of al dente, about 6 minutes.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
Immediately pour in the evaporated milk, increasing the heat slightly to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the grated cheese. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer to avoid curdling the milk. Stir continuously, ensuring the cheese melts smoothly into the milk, transforming it into a rich, creamy sauce. Let the mixture thicken, about 2 minutes, and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta that holds sauce well, such as shells or orecchiette. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
Is there a way to make this mac and cheese more nutritious?
To boost the nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli. Stir them into the sauce towards the end of cooking for added flavor and nutrients.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk to return the creamy consistency, avoiding any separation of the cheese sauce.
