Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Rich, creamy, and undeniably comforting, stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a dish that never goes out of style. Picture this: a chilly evening, maybe a movie night with the family, and the cozy aroma of melted cheese wafting from the kitchen. This recipe is not just simple; it’s quick and made all in one pot! That means you get to spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying that cheesy goodness. Using a combination of sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, and a hint of mozzarella, this mac and cheese achieves a creamy texture that coats every noodle perfectly. Plus, it allows for a few fun twists based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. So grab your ingredients and let’s whip up this heavenly dish, perfect for satisfying those cheesy cravings!

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Why This Recipe Works

This recipe truly shines for several reasons. First, it achieves that creamy texture we all adore by mixing three kinds of cheese. The combination of sharp white cheddar, flavorful Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella brings just the right balance of creaminess and flavor.

Another great perk of this stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is the convenience. You only need one pot to prepare it, making for easy cooking and even easier cleanup. Who doesn’t appreciate that? And the pasta cooks perfectly while soaking up all the delicious flavors in the sauce, leading to a mouthful of cheesy satisfaction with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Now let’s talk about why you’ll absolutely love this dish. For starters, it’s comfort food at its finest. Rich and cheesy, it satisfies those cozy cravings we sometimes get. You know those nights when you just want something warm and cheesy? This mac and cheese delivers.

It’s surprisingly versatile too. Whether you want to keep it classic or throw in some extras, you can tailor it to fit your taste. Add-ins such as veggies, proteins, or different cheeses let you personalize your mac and cheese experience.

Lastly, serving this stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar at the dinner table is like presenting warmth and familiarity in a bowl. It’s a dish that almost guarantees happy faces around the table, and what’s better than that?

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following 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
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For the optional panko topping:
– ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon paprika
– ½ tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions

Melt Butter and Flour Mixture

To kick things off, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the flour and cook for about one minute while stirring constantly. This step helps create a nice base for the sauce.

Make the Creamy Base

Next, pour in the water and whisk it all together until smooth. After that, add in the milk and whisk again to ensure everything is well combined, forming a creamy base.

Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add the uncooked pasta, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cook the pasta for about 9 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s al dente and perfectly cooked.

Stir in the Cheeses

Once your pasta is cooked, take the pot off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella until they’re completely melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth. Get ready for that cheesy goodness!

Prepare the Panko Topping (Optional)

If you’d like an extra crunch, prepare the panko topping. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the panko mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden brown. Once toasted, remove from heat and set aside.

Serve the Mac and Cheese

Finally, spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and sprinkle the toasted panko on top if you chose to make it. Grab a spoon and enjoy it warm!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your mac and cheese with a simple green salad to balance the meal. If you’re feeling fancy, grilled chicken or shrimp would work wonderfully as a protein option on the side. Plus, a helping of steamed broccoli adds nutritional value and color to your plate.

Tips for Success

Here are some handy tips to ensure your stovetop mac and cheese is perfect every time. First, always use freshly grated cheese. It’s key to achieving that desirable melting texture. Secondly, adjust the seasoning based on your personal taste; feel free to add more or less spice as you like. And lastly, don’t overcook the pasta; keeping it al dente will give you that perfect bite.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Switch up the flavors! You can substitute the cheddar for a mix of gouda or even pepper jack if you’re in the mood for something spicier. For a heartier version, add in cooked bacon or ham. And, if you want to sneak in some nutrients, sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can add both color and additional flavor.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, pop them in a saucepan and add a splash of milk to restore that creamy texture.

Pairing Ideas

For a lovely meal, consider serving your mac and cheese with a glass of Chardonnay or a light lager. Garlic bread or dinner rolls can also be a great addition to round out the dining experience beautifully.

FAQs

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour alternative and ensure your pasta is gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time, refrigerate it, and reheat whenever you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s not the best, you can freeze leftovers. Just keep in mind that the texture might change after reheating.

What types of cheese can I use?
Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses, but sticking with sharp white cheddar will give you that classic flavor everyone loves.

How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix.

In just a short time, you can create a joyful, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. With every cheesy bite, you’ll understand why stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a beloved favorite. Enjoy it as is or customize it to your heart’s content. Happy cooking!

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