Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsCotham's In the CityMac & Cheese Recipe

Mac & Cheese Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

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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Macaroni and Cheese

Method

Macaroni and Cheese

  1. 1

    Cook pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.

  2. 2

    Prepare roux

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a light roux.

  3. 3

    Make cheese sauce

    Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Whisk in Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  4. 4

    Add cheeses

    Reduce heat to low and add the cheddar cheese in portions, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.

  5. 5

    Combine pasta and sauce

    Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until creamy and coats the pasta.

  6. 6

    Finish and serve

    Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if desired. Serve hot.

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