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Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar Bliss

A quick and satisfying Stovetop Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 3 tablespoons Butter adds richness and flavor
  • 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour thickens the cheese sauce
  • 3 cups Water helps cook the pasta
  • 4 cups Milk use almond milk for lighter option
  • 1 pound Uncooked elbow pasta any pasta shape works
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder enhances savory notes
  • 1 teaspoon Ground mustard adds subtle tang
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground black pepper gives gentle spice
  • 4 cups Sharp white cheddar cheese provides robust flavor
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese adds nutty depth
  • ¼ cup Mozzarella cheese lends creaminess
For the Panko Topping (optional)
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs adds crunch
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder amplifies flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon Paprika introduces smoky note
  • ½ tablespoon Olive oil to toast the panko

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Whisk
  • Separate pan

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook until smooth and bubbly, about 1 minute.
  3. Gradually add water and milk, whisking constantly until mixture thickens and simmers.
  4. Stir in garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add uncooked elbow pasta, bring to boil, then simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
  7. In a separate pan, toast panko with garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil until golden brown.
  8. Serve the mac and cheese warm topped with toasted panko if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Choose high-quality cheeses for best flavor. Adjust thickness by adding more milk if necessary. Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days.

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