Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it a great choice for a fast meal.
- One-Pot Recipe – Minimal cleanup required, perfect for busy days.
- Super Creamy & Cheesy – A mix of sharp cheddar and white cheddar gives it the ultimate cheesy flavor.
- Customizable – Easily adjust the seasonings or add mix-ins like meat, jalapeños, or breadcrumbs.
- Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved – A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups elbow noodles (about 12 oz)
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter, sliced
- 1 oz cream cheese, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large pot over high heat, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow noodles and cook until al dente.
- Drain noodles well and return to the pot over medium-low heat.
- Stir in shredded cheeses, sour cream, butter, cream cheese, garlic, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is melted and well combined.
- Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cooking Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Calories per serving: 753 kcal
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Meat Lover’s Twist – Stir in your choice of cooked halal meat for extra flavor.
- Veggie Boost – Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers.
- Crunchy Topping – Top with toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Different Cheeses – Try using smoked gouda, gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cheese sauce may become grainy when thawed.
FAQs
How do I prevent my mac and cheese from becoming grainy?
Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded, as pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While elbow noodles are classic, you can use shells, rotini, or cavatappi.
What can I add to make it even creamier?
A splash of heavy cream or whole milk can make the sauce extra smooth.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
How do I keep mac and cheese from drying out?
Serve it immediately, and if reheating, add a bit of milk or butter to bring back the creaminess.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce separately and mix it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What can I serve with mac and cheese?
Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked halal meat or even tuna works well.
Why add mustard powder?
It enhances the cheese flavor and gives a subtle depth to the dish.
Can I make this without butter?
Yes, but butter helps with the rich and creamy texture. If needed, substitute with extra sour cream or cream cheese.
Conclusion
This stovetop mac and cheese is a quick, creamy, and satisfying meal that requires just one pot and minimal effort. Whether you enjoy it as a simple dinner or dress it up with add-ins, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness!
Stovetop Mac and Cheese
This Stovetop Mac and Cheese is the ultimate quick and creamy comfort food, made in just one pot with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and butter for an irresistibly rich and cheesy dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish in under 20 minutes!
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minute
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 serving
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow noodles (about 12 oz)
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter, sliced
- 1 oz cream cheese, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over high heat, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow noodles and cook until al dente.
- Drain noodles well and return to the pot over medium-low heat.
- Stir in shredded cheeses, sour cream, butter, cream cheese, garlic, ground mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is melted and well combined.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Add a splash of milk if you prefer a looser sauce.
- Stir in cooked meat , sautéed onions, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- This dish is best served fresh, as reheating can change the texture.
