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–+ servings
Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar Bliss

A quick and creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar, perfect for busy evenings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with margarine for dairy-free.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Use gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free.
  • 1 cup Water Can help adjust thickness.
  • 1 cup Milk Use whole milk for richness or almond milk for lactose-free.
  • 2 cups Elbow Pasta Can substitute with gluten-free pasta.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard Skip if unavailable.
  • to taste teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Freshly cracked for better flavor.
  • 1 cup Sharp White Cheddar Cheese Main flavor contributor.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated Pecorino Romano is a good alternative.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Substituting with Gouda may alter texture.
For the Topping (optional)
  • ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
  • a pinch Paprika Omit if not preferred.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Whisk
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, stirring frequently until fully melted, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Create the Roux: Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the melted butter, cook for 2-3 minutes until light golden.
  3. Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of water and 1 cup of milk until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
  4. Cook the Pasta: Add 2 cups of elbow pasta, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente.
  5. Incorporate the Cheeses: Remove from heat, stir in 1 cup sharp white cheddar, ½ cup Parmesan, and 1 cup mozzarella until melted.
  6. Prepare the Optional Topping: In a skillet, combine ½ cup panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika, toast for 3-4 minutes.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to bowls, top with panko breadcrumbs if prepared, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For maximum crunch, ensure your panko breadcrumbs are toasted to golden brown before sprinkling on top.

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