{Easy} Stovetop Mac & Cheese

Alright, confession. I am a carb girl. Carbs...all.the.way. And pasta? Oh yeah, it's a weakness. I love making and eating pasta. So good. I especially love homemade {baked} mac & cheese. I have a great recipe & I'll share that one with you sometime. 

However, today I thought I'd share this easy stovetop recipe with you. I was a bit skeptical at first but the end result was surprising. Next time I make it I would change a few things but overall it turned out great and was a quick fix to my mac & cheese craving without using boxed or having to prepare baked. 

{photo: the fancy life}

{Easy} Stovetop Mac & Cheese

- 2 cups of dried pasta (I used small shells)

- 2 1/2 cups milk (I used skim - and next time I may try adding 3 cups...just so it will be a bit creamier)

- 1 cup loosely packed cheddar cheese, shredded by hand (I ended up adding more - my motto with cheese: the more the merrier. Also - next time I think I'll use sharp cheddar)

- 1 tsp salt

- 1/4 tsp dijon mustard (I did not add this as I didn't have any on hand but will try adding next time)

1. In a sauce pan add milk & pasta. Bring to a simmer and then turn heat down to low cooking for 20-25min until the pasta becomes tender. Stir frequently & don't let the milk boil.

2. Once pasta is tender remove from heat and add the cheese, salt & mustard. After mixed together cover and let stand for a few minutes and the stir again before serving. This is where you can add more milk if you want it creamier. 

*optional - at this time you can bake for about 10 min at 375 degrees with extra cheese on top*

I found the original recipe here and there are additional *tips* on how to make this recipe extra delish.

This time of year is when I really want to cook/bake the comfort food. 

I would definitely try this recipe again.

Happy 1st day of November {and happy birthday to my Momma}!