Mac & Cheese Recipe
Make Mac & Cheese Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (optional)
Method
Cook Pasta
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil over high heat.
Cook Elbow Macaroni
Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Prepare Cheese Sauce
Add Flour
Once the butter is melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.
Add Milk
Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Cheese and Spices
Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoons of black pepper, 0.5 teaspoons of garlic powder, and 0.5 teaspoons of paprika until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine and Serve
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
Optional Topping
If desired, mix 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs with 0.5 cups of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture on top of the mac and cheese.
Bake (optional)
If using the topping, place the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
Serve
Serve hot and enjoy your homemade mac and cheese!
