Description
This Skillet Creamy Macaroni and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, boasting a rich, cheesy sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheeses. Cooked on the stovetop and finished under the broiler for a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this dish combines creamy, gooey textures with a satisfying crispy crust. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal that serves 4 to 6 people.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Topping
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Roux: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together with the butter to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute without allowing it to brown.
- Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour the milk into the roux while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream if using, and continue whisking until the sauce is smooth. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Melt the Cheeses: Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese if using. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, mustard powder, and paprika.
- Combine with Pasta: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce in the skillet, making sure the pasta is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Add Topping and Broil: If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese evenly over the mac and cheese. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the creamy macaroni and cheese straight from the skillet. Garnish with extra paprika, fresh herbs, or additional cheese as preferred.
Notes
- Using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses gives the sauce both sharp flavor and stretchy texture.
- Heavy cream and cream cheese are optional but add extra richness and creaminess.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and garlic powder, depending on your cheese’s saltiness.
- Broiling the topping is optional but highly recommended for a delightful crunchy crust.
- Pasta can be any shape, but elbow macaroni is traditional.
- For a lighter version, reduce butter and cheese amounts or substitute milk with a lower-fat alternative.
