Macaroni & Cheese Recipe
Make Macaroni & Cheese Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta & Cheese Base
Topping (optional)
Method
Pasta & Cheese Base
- 1
Cook the pasta
Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Stir in 1 tsp salt and add the 3 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is just al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- 2
Make the roux
In the same pot or a separate medium saucepan, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 3 tbsp all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden (this removes the raw flour taste).
- 3
Add milk and seasonings
Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir in 1 tsp dry mustard and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Let the sauce thicken for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it coats the back of a spoon.
- 4
Finish the cheese sauce
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 tbsp cream cheese (if using) until smooth. Gradually add the shredded cheese: first the 2 cups sharp cheddar, then the 1 cup mild cheddar or Colby. Stir constantly until cheeses are fully melted and sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in up to the reserved 1/2 cup pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning to taste.
- 5
Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat thoroughly. Heat together for 1–2 minutes so pasta warms through and absorbs some sauce. If serving immediately, transfer to serving dish and garnish as desired.
Topping (optional)
- 6
Prepare breadcrumb topping
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (if using). Toss until crumbs are evenly coated.
- 7
Assemble and bake
If baking, spoon the macaroni and cheese into a 9x9-inch or similar baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top. Bake in the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, until topping is golden and sauce is bubbling at the edges. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
- 8
