Macaroni & Cheese recipe served on a plate, by Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant

Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

Make Macaroni & Cheese Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Time30m
Serves4
Rating
5.0
1 rating
Jump to Recipe
Last updated Sep 17, 2026

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Topping (optional)

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Macaroni

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.

  2. 2

    Drain the Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse.

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 3

    Melt Butter

    In the same pot used for the macaroni, melt the butter over medium heat.

  2. 4

    Add Flour

    Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

  3. 5

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 6

    Add Cheese and Seasoning

    Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Serving

  1. 7

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until all the pasta is coated evenly.

  2. 8

    Optional Topping

    If using, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, then sprinkle over the top of the macaroni and cheese.

  3. 9

    Bake (if using topping)

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

  4. 10

    Serve

    Remove from the oven (if baked) and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy macaroni and cheese!

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