Mac-n-cheese Recipe
Make Mac-n-cheese Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt.
Cook Macaroni
Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
Add Flour
Once melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
Add Milk
Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Add Cheese and Seasonings
Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining and Baking
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly.
Prepare Topping (Optional)
In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
Transfer and Top
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. If using, sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade mac-n-cheese!