Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese with Rotisserie Chicken & Crispy Breadcrumbs

Recipe and photos by Abbie Guerrero , food blogger and creator of Savvy with Abbie. All photos original.

Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

Growing up, we ate a lot of macaroni and cheese so it has become a family staple. This homemade macaroni is made on the stove but it has a layer of breadcrumbs on top which is broiled and makes this recipe unique. 

Creamy stovetop mac and cheese topped with crispy breadcrumbs and rotisserie chicken for a family-favorite, hearty meal!

Crispy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese right out of the oven and ready to serve

• 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

Why Choose Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese can be full of extra ingredients and making a homemade version allows you to know exactly what it is going in it. I personally think that homemade is always better. Most of the ingredients you probably already have on hand and it's a simple classic with a few twists. With a 15-20 minute cook time, your kids will be asking for more!

How To Customize This Macaroni and Cheese

Kevin (my fiancé) picked up a rotisserie chicken to go on top. He seemed to really enjoy it. We also broiled breadcrumbs on top as well so it added a crispy top layer to traditional mac and cheese. 

I used reduced fat cheese - still trying to find healthy alternatives where I can. 

Another Mac and Cheese Recipe To Try

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.

Inspiration Behind This Recipe

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.

Everything You Need To Make This 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
Seasonings for Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

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.

✓ 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.
Macaroni and Cheese with all ingredients cooking on the stove

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

Note: For an extra cheesy bite, sprinkle some parmesan on top before broiling.
Crispy stovetop macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs
Note: Want to add meat? Top with rotisserie chicken before serving!
Rotisserie chicken added to creamy stovetop mac and cheese

How To Store & Reheat Leftovers

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

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