Mac N' Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Canard

Time30m

Serves4

Make Mac N' 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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1
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2
Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
3
Add Milk and Cheese
While stirring, gradually add 2 cups of milk to the roux. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, reduce heat to low and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4
Season the Sauce
Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine.
5
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
6
Optional Breadcrumb Topping
If desired, sprinkle 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese for added texture.
7
Bake (Optional)
If using breadcrumbs, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the mac and cheese for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Otherwise, serve immediately.
8
Serve
Serve the macaroni and cheese warm. Enjoy!