Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese with Rotisserie Chicken & Crispy Breadcrumbs

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Every once in a while, I make an "unhealthy" meal — this one was requested by Jace. All of us love macaroni and cheese. It's a family staple, right?

Growing up, we ate a lot of it, so I decided to make this homemade version and topped it with breadcrumbs (Kevin's idea). Kevin loves meat in all of his meals, so he picked up a rotisserie chicken to go on top. He seemed to really enjoy it. I’m fine with just regular mac and cheese, so this worked great for me. I used reduced fat cheese — still trying to find healthy alternatives where I can. I'll be honest, it took a little while to make, but it was definitely worth it.

Crispy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese right out of the oven and ready to serveCreamy stovetop mac and cheese topped with golden breadcrumbs - perfectly crisped and bubbling hot.

• Total cook and prep time: 15–20 minutes
• Family friendly: Yes, macaroni and cheese is a family staple
• Difficulty level: Intermediate
• Serving size: 5–6
• Serving suggestions: Pair with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, sautéed vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, or iced tea

This easy stovetop macaroni and cheese recipe is adapted from Southern Living and we added a few twists — including a breadcrumb topping with a quick broil and finishing it off with rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients for Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

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• 4 cups water
• 2 cups milk
• 16 oz uncooked *elbow macaroni
• 16 oz cheese of your choice (we used 6 oz reduced fat sharp cheddar, 8 oz colby jack, and 2 oz Italian 3 cheese blend)
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• *½ tsp dry mustard
• *Italian Style Bread Crumbs or *Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs

Ingredients for Macaroni and Cheese which includes milk, pasta, and seasonings
Simple ingredients for creamy stovetop mac and cheese - milk, pasta, cheese, and pantry spices.
Seasonings for Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese
Spices in measuring spoons on the countertop, ready for the macaroni.

How to Make Stovetop Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step)

✓ Step #1: Add water and milk – In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and 2 cups of milk to a simmer over medium heat.

✓ Step #2: Bring to simmer – Stir occasionally while it heats.

✓ Step #3: Cook pasta – Add uncooked pasta and stir often, cooking for about 7 minutes. Do not drain.

Pasta on the stove, cooking, getting ready for cheese and seasoning.
Elbow macaroni simmering on the stovetop - the start of this creamy, cheesy comfort dish.

✓ Step #4: Remove from heat – Turn off the stove and prepare to mix in cheese and spices.

✓ Step #5: Add cheese and seasonings – Stir in cheese, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dry mustard until smooth and fully melted (about 2–3 minutes).

Cheeses in a pot, ready to be added to the macaroni noodles.
A mix of reduced-fat cheddar, colby jack, and Italian cheese melting into creamy perfection.
Macaroni and Cheese with all ingredients cooking on the stove
Homemade mac and cheese coming together on the stovetop - smooth, cheesy, and full of flavor.

✓ Step #6: Broil with breadcrumbs – Transfer to a loaf pan, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for 3 minutes.

Note: For an extra cheesy bite, sprinkle some parmesan on top before broiling.

Crispy stovetop macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs
A breadcrumb topping ready to broil and crisp to perfection - the ultimate comfort food upgrade.

Note: Want to add meat? Top with rotisserie chicken before serving!

Rotisserie chicken added to creamy stovetop mac and cheese
Tender rotisserie chicken layered over creamy mac and cheese - hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

Storage & Reheating Tip

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 2 minutes or until warm.

What Did You Think of this Macaroni and Cheese?

What did you think of this rotisserie chicken mac and cheese? I rate this a 4-Star. Did you try it? Comment or rate it below! You can also pin it or share it on social media!

Have you added any creative twists to your mac and cheese recipes? If you liked this recipe, you may also like my Copycat Chick-Fil-A Mac and Cheese recipe.

What’s your favorite twist on mac and cheese? Let me know in the comments if you've made your own twist on mac and cheese! I’d love to hear what you added to make it your own!

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