Macaroni and cheese is one of the most loved comfort foods in the world. Creamy, cheesy, warm, and satisfying, it is perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or when you just want something comforting. While fancy mac and cheese recipes often use many expensive cheeses, this simple version proves that you don’t need luxury ingredients to make something truly delicious.
This stovetop macaroni and cheese recipe uses basic pantry ingredients, comes together in just 25 minutes, and tastes better than most boxed versions. Once you make it a couple of times, you’ll probably know it by heart.
Why This Simple Mac and Cheese Works
This recipe is popular because:
- Uses easy-to-find ingredients
- Takes only 25 minutes
- Creamy and smooth texture
- Cheap and budget-friendly
- Perfect base for add-ins
- Better than boxed mac and cheese
It’s simple, reliable, and delicious every time.
Ingredients for Simple Macaroni and Cheese
For 4 servings, you will need:
- 1 (8-ounce) box elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Ingredient Roles
- Macaroni is the base.
- Butter adds richness.
- Flour thickens the sauce.
- Milk creates creaminess.
- Cheese gives flavor.
- Salt and pepper balance taste.
Always grate your own cheese for smoother sauce.
Step-by-Step Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
Add flour, salt, and pepper.
Stir constantly for about 5 minutes until smooth and lightly cooked.
Step 3: Add Milk
Slowly pour in milk while stirring.
Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
Do not let the milk burn.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Add shredded Cheddar slowly.
Stir until melted and smooth, about 2–4 minutes.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce.
Mix until fully coated.
Serve hot and enjoy.
What Is a Roux and Why It Matters
A roux is made from fat (butter) and flour cooked together.
It is used to thicken sauces.
In mac and cheese:
- Roux thickens the milk
- Creates creamy texture
- Prevents sauce from being watery
Cooking the roux for a few minutes removes raw flour taste.
How to Make It Extra Creamy
For creamier mac and cheese:
- Use whole milk
- Add extra ½ cup cheese
- Stir constantly
- Do not overcook
- Serve immediately
Can You Bake This Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can bake it if you want a bubbly, crispy top.
How to Bake:
- Make the stovetop mac and cheese.
- Transfer to baking dish.
- Add toppings like:
- Bread crumbs
- Parmesan
- Crushed crackers
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 minutes.
- Bake until golden and bubbly.
Add-Ins and Variations
This recipe is a perfect base. You can customize it easily.
Cheese Variations:
- White cheddar
- Mozzarella
- Monterey Jack
- Mexican cheese blend
- Velveeta
Protein Add-Ins:
- Diced ham
- Cooked chicken
- Bacon
- Sausage
Veggie Add-Ins:
- Broccoli
- Peas
- Spinach
- Onions
- Mushrooms
Flavor Boosters:
- Mustard
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Paprika
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using pre-shredded cheese
- Burning the milk
- Not stirring enough
- Overcooking pasta
- Using too high heat
How to Store Mac and Cheese
In the Fridge:
- Store in airtight container
- Lasts 3–4 days
To Reheat:
- Add a splash of milk
- Reheat on stove or microwave
- Stir while heating
Can You Freeze Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it.
How to Freeze:
- Let cool completely
- Store in freezer-safe bag
- Remove extra air
- Label and freeze up to 6 months
To Use:
- Thaw overnight in fridge
- Reheat with milk
Nutrition (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: about 350–400
- Protein: 12–15g
- Fat: 18–20g
- Carbs: 30–35g
Good source of calcium and energy.
Why Homemade Is Better Than Boxed
Homemade mac and cheese:
- No preservatives
- Better flavor
- Customizable
- Creamier texture
- Cheaper in long run
Once you try this, you may never go back to boxed versions.
Mac and Cheese for Every Occasion
This dish is perfect for:
- Busy weeknights
- Kids’ lunches
- Potluck dinners
- Parties
- Comfort food cravings
It’s loved by kids and adults alike.
Quick Troubleshooting
Sauce too thick?
Add more milk.
Sauce too thin?
Add more cheese or simmer longer.
Sauce grainy?
Heat too high or cheese added too fast.
Final Thoughts
This simple macaroni and cheese recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients or long cooking time to make amazing comfort food. With just pasta, butter, flour, milk, and cheese, you can create a creamy, satisfying dish in only 25 minutes.
Whether you eat it plain, bake it with a crispy topping, or load it with add-ins like chicken and broccoli, this mac and cheese will always be a winner. Once you try it, it will become your go-to recipe for quick, tasty, and comforting meals.