15 Minute Macaroni and Cheese
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Macaroni and Cheese has always been one of my favorite comfort foods growing up, and even now, I still enjoy the warmth and memories of this classic dish. There’s something about a no good, horrible, bad day that only homemade mac and cheese can fix!
Although most recipes are made in the crockpot or baked in the oven, this one only needs 15 minutes and a stovetop. Not only does this shorten your cooking time significantly, it also creates a gooey, cheesy pot of gold that absolutely no one can resist.
After trying this recipe, I think you’ll agree it tastes way better than those icky store-bought versions, and best of all, it hardly costs a thing to make!
The Process
Step 1: Measure out small shells into a large saucepan and cook according to package directions.
Step 2: While shells are cooking, cut Velveeta cheese into small cubes and set aside.
Step 3: Drain shells and return to stovetop on low heat, then add butter and milk. Stir to melt.
Step 4: Add cheese and stir 2-3 minutes until fully melted, then serve as a quick dinner, or kid-friendly side.
15 Minute Macaroni and Cheese
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Stovetop mac and cheese is one of the easiest ways to recreate your favorite childhood comfort food. This recipe comes together in 15 minutes and uses just 4 ingredients, but tastes so much better than the boxed version. Your kids will love it!
Ingredients
- 3 cups uncooked small shell pasta
- 2 cups cubed Velveeta cheese (approx 5–6 oz)
- 1 1/2 tbsp milk
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Return to stovetop on low heat.
- While pasta is cooking, cut Velveeta cheese into cubes and set aside.
- Stir in milk and butter until melted, then add cubes of cheese, stirring about 2-3 minutes until melted.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: macaroni and cheese, quick mac and cheese
Total Cost: $1.98 or $.50/serving
Velveeta cheese can be pricey, which is why I always buy the store brand or wait until I have coupons to combine with a sale. You can’t ever taste the difference anyway, and it’s such a nice break from the ever-popular cheddar.
How do you usually make mac and cheese?
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Yes! This is the best Mac & Cheese! Simple, quick and delicious! Serve with veggies or salad on the side and the meal is complete!
★★★★★
I have an easier recipe that removes processed Velveeta…Ina large skillet, cook 2 cups of macaroni in 3 cups of liquid_ half milk\half water and salt to taste and pepper. When the macaroni is al dente, add 3 cups of shredded cheddar or any combination. Stir to melt the cheese and its done!
Joseph loves cheddar, so I’ll have to try this — thanks! 🙂
I so want to try to make this for the kiddos!
HooooLY cow this looks so yummy!! I’m a sucker for a good, cheesy Macaroni.
Me too! 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a comment, Alyssa!
Looks delicious! I can’t wait to try it, the kiddos love mac and cheese 🙂
Wow this looks really easy and delicious. Thanks so much for sharing this recipe. I make mac and cheese every week, and I think I’ll try this recipe soon. 🙂
Saving this. The hubs works nights and Im horrible at remembering the kids actually need dinner until it’s actually dinner time. This sounds better than easy mac 😉
It’s WAY better. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by, Megan!
Stove top mac & cheese is a favorite for me. I prefer it over baked and I’ve never had the crock pot version. Quick, creamy, and easy are essential for a tasty mac & cheese.