How to Make Simple Stovetop Mac and Cheese

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while maintaining creaminess.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthier fats.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk is lower in calories.

flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornstarch

Whole wheat flour adds fiber.

In a medium size saucepan, add 1.5 cups of water and 1 cup of whole milk.

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni to the boiling mixture.

Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the macaroni for 6-8 minutes until just past al dente.

Grate 1 cup of deli American cheese and set aside.

Add the grated American cheese to the pot and stir until melted, keeping the heat on.

Remove the pot from heat and add 1 cup of extra sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until incorporated.

Cover the pot to allow the cheddar to melt slowly.

In a separate skillet, combine 0.33 cup of panko breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, toasting until golden brown.

Season the toasted breadcrumbs with salt and pepper.

Finish the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serve the macaroni and cheese topped with the toasted breadcrumbs.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens