Mac & Cheese Recipe
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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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (Optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Elbow Macaroni
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 2
Drain Pasta
Once the macaroni is cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that helps the cheese sauce cling.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 3
- 4
Make Roux
Once the butter is melted, add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. Stir continuously with a whisk for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux, until it is golden and bubbly.
- 5
Add Milk
Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- 6
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- 7
Mix Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat all pasta evenly with the cheese sauce.
Optional Topping
- 8
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined.
- 9
Bake (Optional)
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.