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Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar Bliss

This Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar is a creamy, cozy dish that delights with its rich flavors in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Ideas
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Butter adds richness and helps create a velvety sauce
  • 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour used for thickening the cheese sauce to perfection
  • 3 cups Water combines with milk to create the ideal creamy base
  • 4 cups Milk the secret to a smooth and rich texture
  • 1 pound Uncooked elbow pasta choose traditional elbows for that classic shape
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder provides a subtle depth of flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Ground mustard adds a slight zing
  • 1 teaspoon Salt essential for flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth
  • 4 cups Sharp white cheddar cheese the star of the show
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese enhances the umami flavor
  • ¼ cup Mozzarella cheese contributes creaminess
For the Panko Topping (optional)
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs create a delightful crunchy topping
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder adds extra flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon Paprika gives a subtle smoky note
  • ½ tablespoon Olive oil helps the panko brown beautifully

Equipment

  • Large Cooking Pot
  • Whisk
  • oven
  • small bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the Flour: Quickly whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring for about 1 minute.
  3. Add Liquid Ingredients: Gradually pour in 3 cups of water and 4 cups of milk, whisking continuously.
  4. Flavor the Sauce: Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of ground mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Add 1 pound of uncooked elbow pasta to the sauce, mixing well.
  6. Incorporate the Cheeses: Remove pot from heat and stir in 4 cups of sharp white cheddar, ½ cup of Parmesan, and ¼ cup of mozzarella.
  7. Prepare the Panko Topping (Optional): If using, combine ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of paprika, and ½ tablespoon of olive oil.
  8. Broil for Crunch (Optional): Sprinkle the panko mixture over the mac and cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Always use good-quality cheese for flavor and creaminess.

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