Mac & Cheese recipe served on a plate, by Crave Kitchen & Cocktails

Mac & Cheese Recipe

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

Time30m
Serves4
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 Water

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Cook Pasta

    Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

    In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

  2. 5

    Make Roux

    Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux, stirring constantly.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

    Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese

    Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

  5. 8

    Season Sauce

    Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, stirring to combine.

Combining and Serving

  1. 9

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.

  2. 10

    Prepare for Baking

    If desired, transfer the mac & cheese to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

  3. 11

    Broil Topping

    Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

  4. 12

    Serve

    Serve hot and enjoy your homemade mac & cheese!

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