Mac & Cheese Recipe
Make Mac & Cheese Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta and Cheese
Toppings (optional)
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- 2
Cook Macaroni
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Add Cream Cheese
Add 4 oz of cream cheese to the melted butter and stir until smooth.
- 6
Combine Cheese and Milk
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk until fully combined, then add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- 7
Season the Sauce
Stir in 1 tsp of salt, 1 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of garlic powder, and 1 tsp of paprika. Mix until well incorporated.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- 8
Mix Macaroni and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Baking (optional)
- 9
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 10
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
- 11
Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture evenly on top.
- 12
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serving
- 13
Garnish
If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- 14
Serve
Scoop out servings and enjoy your creamy mac and cheese!