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Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar Bliss

Enjoy this quick, creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar in just 20 minutes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Water Used to cook the pasta.
  • 1 cup Milk Whole milk is recommended; can replace with non-dairy milk for a lighter version.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Use fresh minced garlic if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard Dijon mustard can be used for a sharper flavor.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Ground Black Pepper Provides a mild heat.
For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Uncooked Elbow Pasta Substitutable with any similar pasta shape.
For the Cheesy Bliss
  • 1 cup Sharp White Cheddar Cheese Can mix with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a twist.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Use Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese Can omit for a less cheesy profile.
For the Crunchy Topping (Optional)
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used if panko is unavailable.
  • to taste Paprika Adds flavor and color.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • wooden spoon
  • Skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbling gently and turns a light golden color, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Stir in the flour and mix continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
  3. Gradually pour in the water and milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, and cook until it bubbles and thickens slightly.
  4. Add the uncooked elbow pasta, garlic powder, ground mustard, and salt and pepper to taste, stirring until well coated and simmering.
  5. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil and toast the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika until golden brown.
  8. Dish out the mac and cheese into bowls, topping with the toasted panko and paprika before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with different cheeses or vegetables for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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