Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese (Easy, Homemade Macaroni and Cheese)

heavy cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

pepper bacon

🥗Healthier: turkey bacon

💰Cheaper: regular bacon

Turkey bacon is lower in fat and calories

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Low-fat cheddar reduces calories while processed cheese is often cheaper

Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth.

Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.

Season with salt, black pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.

Top with crumbled pepper bacon and bread crumbs.

Sprinkle paprika over the top for color.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until bubbly and golden, about 20-25 minutes.

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens