Kids Mac & Cheese Recipe
Make Kids 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
Toppings (optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil the Water
In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- 2
Cook the Pasta
Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally.
- 3
Drain the Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 4
Melt the Butter
In the same pot used for the pasta, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until bubbly.
- 5
Add Flour
Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- 6
Pour in Milk
Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese and Seasonings
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining and Serving
- 8
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
- 9
Prepare Toppings (optional)
If using, mix bread crumbs and parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the mac & cheese.
- 10
Bake (optional)
Transfer the mac & cheese to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top, if using toppings.
- 11
Serve
Spoon the mac & cheese into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy!
