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Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Ultimate Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar Bliss

This creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a quick, one-pot meal that's comforting and rich, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 560
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons butter Adds richness and helps create a roux
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce
  • 4 cups milk Provides creamy texture
  • 1 lb. uncooked elbow pasta Heart of the dish
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor depth
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard Boosts cheese flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential seasoning for balanced flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper Adds mild heat
  • 4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese Main flavor profile
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese Introduces a savory kick
  • ¼ cup mozzarella cheese Adds stretchiness
For the Optional Panko Topping
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs Creates a delightful crunch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Extra flavor in the topping
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika Adds a lovely hue
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil Helps breadcrumbs brown beautifully

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt and pasta, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and stir for about 2 minutes until golden and smooth.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk and water, stirring for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Lower heat, add cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, and stir until melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. For the topping, heat a skillet and combine panko, garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil. Toast for 3-4 minutes until golden, then sprinkle on top of mac and cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 560kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 900IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 2 months, thaw in the fridge before reheating.

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