Description
A quick and creamy stovetop mac and cheese recipe featuring sharp cheddar cheese and a blend of spices for a rich, comforting meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces (2 cups) regular or whole-wheat macaroni noodles
- 2 teaspoons salt, for the pasta cooking water
Cheese Sauce
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 ⅓ packed cups (5 ounces) grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
- Tiny pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and salt, and cook until al dente according to package directions.
- Drain Pasta: Drain the pasta and set aside in a colander while you prepare the sauce.
- Heat Cream: Return the empty pot to medium heat and add the heavy cream. Bring it to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute to slightly reduce and thicken.
- Add Cheese and Spices: Remove the pot from heat briefly; add the grated sharp cheddar, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta back to the pot. Stir well to coat the noodles evenly in the cheese sauce.
- Serve: Taste and adjust salt if necessary. Serve the mac and cheese immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Make it gluten free: Substitute your favorite sturdy gluten-free noodles, such as a corn and quinoa blend.
- Change it up: To make this mac and cheese more sophisticated, sprinkle bowls with finely grated Parmesan cheese and toasted bread crumbs. For added nutrition, mix in steamed broccoli or other vegetables.
- How to reheat: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated in the microwave or on the stove. Avoid overheating to prevent sauce separation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
