Craving comfort food? master the art of velveeta mac and cheese on the stove
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.
