Mac And Cheese Recipe
Creamy macaroni and cheese made with real cheddar.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Toppings (optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 8 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 2
Drain the Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 3
- 4
Make the Roux
Once the butter is melted, whisk in 0.5 cup of all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- 5
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 6
Combining
- 7
Mix Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the macaroni is well coated.
Optional Toppings
- 8
Prepare Toppings
If using, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- 9
Add Toppings
Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture over the mac and cheese.
Baking (optional)
- 10
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.