Deluxe Mac 'n' Cheese Recipe
Make Deluxe Mac 'n' Cheese Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping
Method
Pasta Preparation
- 1
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce Preparation
- 2
Make the Roux
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.
- 3
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Incorporate Cheeses
Reduce heat to low, then add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and 4 oz of softened cream cheese. Stir until all cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- 5
Season the Sauce
Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Mix well.
Combine and Bake
- 6
Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta.
- 7
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of bread crumbs, 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika.
- 8
Assemble the Dish
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the top.
- 9
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the mac and cheese for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- 10
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley before serving.