Macaroni & Cheese Recipe
Make Macaroni & 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 the Pasta
- 1
Boil 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. Drain and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- 2
Prepare the Roux
In the same pot you used for the pasta, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- 3
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Cheese it Up
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoons of black pepper, and 0.5 teaspoons of paprika.
Combining and Serving
- 5
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- 6
Optional Topping
If desired, mix 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs and 0.5 cups of grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the macaroni and cheese for added crunch.
- 7
Bake (Optional)
For a baked version, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- 8
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with extra paprika if desired.