Mac N Cheese Recipe
Make Mac N Cheese Recipe in just 40m. 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
Pasta & Cheese Sauce
Cook the pasta
Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 tsp salt and the 3 cups elbow macaroni. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Make a roux
In the same pot over medium heat, melt 3 tbs unsalted butter. Once bubbling, sprinkle in 3 tbs all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes lightly golden and smells toasty (this cooks out the raw flour flavor).
Add milk and seasonings
Gradually whisk in 2 cups whole milk, making sure to eliminate lumps. Add 1 tsp dry mustard powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 4–6 minutes). If it becomes too thick, whisk in up to the reserved 1/2 cup pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
Finish the cheese sauce
Lower heat to low. Add 2 oz softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Remove the pot from heat and gradually stir in 2 cups grated sharp cheddar and 1 cup grated mild cheddar/Monterey Jack until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with a little more salt or pepper if needed.
Combine with pasta
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently fold until every piece is coated. If sauce seems too thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water until creamy. Keep warm.
Topping (optional) & Bake
Prepare topping
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake. In a small bowl combine 0.75 cups panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbs melted butter, 2 tbs grated Parmesan, 0.25 tsp paprika, and 1 tbs chopped fresh parsley. Stir until crumbs are evenly coated.
Assemble and bake
Transfer the mac and cheese to a lightly buttered 8-inch square or similar-sized ovenproof dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the topping is golden and the edges are bubbling. For an extra-crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes watching closely to avoid burning. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving.