Jul 14 2026

Mac 'n' Cheese Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Make Mac 'n' 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

Toppings (optional)

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt.

  2. 2

    Cook Pasta

    Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 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 the same pot used for the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat.

  2. 5

    Whisk in Flour

    Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

    Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Serving

  1. 8

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.

  2. 9

    Optional Toppings

    If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese on top of the mac 'n' cheese.

  3. 10

    Bake (optional)

    For a crispy topping, transfer the mac 'n' cheese to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Serve hot and enjoy your creamy mac 'n' cheese!

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