Homemade Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe (No Flour!)
Need a Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe without flour? This simple stovetop recipe gives you all the rich, velvety goodness you love, with just a few simple ingredients. No flour, no roux - just the ultimate comfort food that's creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious in every bite! Perfect for when you're craving something quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni, dry
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/2 onion, grated with juices
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne powder
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 2 cups grated cheese not pre-shredded
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted water, cook the elbow macaroni for 8 minutes or until al dente. Save 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Grate the onion over the pot and add the seasonings. Saute for 1 minute.
- With the pot over medium-low heat, slowly pour in the warm milk and cream, stirring continuously, until all the milk has been added. Bring to a simmer, allowing to thicken for 7-8 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
- Add the grated cheese a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until the cheese has fully melted. Continue until all the cheese is incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce will continue to thicken as it sits*. Enjoy!
Notes
*You can add the reserved pasta water if needed after you've combined the pasta with the cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add the pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time on low heat, until you reach a creamy texture.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
To store, transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge.
To reheat:
-
Stovetop:
- Place the leftover mac and cheese in a pot over low heat.
- Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce, stirring occasionally.
- Heat gently, stirring until warmed through, about 3 minutes.
-
Microwave Method:
- Place mac and cheese in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water.
- Cover the bowl loosely with a paper towel.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through, about 3 minutes.