Craving comfort food? master the art of velveeta mac and cheese on the stove
What To Know
- Bake the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- With just a few simple ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that the whole family will love.
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy delight of homemade mac and cheese with the convenience of Velveeta. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the effortless process of creating a comforting and delicious dish on the stovetop.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (8-ounce) package elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of cheddar soup
- 1 (16-ounce) block Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Macaroni
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Drain the macaroni and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture is bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cream of cheddar soup and Velveeta cubes.
- Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and thick.
3. Combine the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and top with any desired toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, or bacon bits.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Use high-quality cheese for a richer flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk a little at a time.
- If the sauce is too thin, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water).
- Don’t overcook the macaroni, as it will become mushy.
- Serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
Variations
- Add chopped ham, bacon, or cooked chicken to the mac and cheese for extra protein.
- Use different types of pasta, such as shells, penne, or rotini.
- Stir in a dollop of sour cream for a tangy flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a hint of spice.
Beyond the Stovetop
- Mac and Cheese in the Oven: Bake the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Mac and Cheese in the Microwave: Place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
The Final Verdict
Making mac and cheese with Velveeta on the stove is a quick, easy, and delicious way to satisfy your cheesy cravings. With just a few simple ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a comforting and flavorful dish that the whole family will love.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How long does it take to make mac and cheese with Velveeta on the stove?
A: The total cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes, including preparing the macaroni and making the cheese sauce.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
A: Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with other processed cheeses, such as American cheese or cheddar cheese. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Q: How can I make the mac and cheese healthier?
A: To make a healthier version of mac and cheese, use whole-wheat macaroni, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the dish.