Mac And Cheese Recipe
Make Mac And 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 Sauce
Topping (Optional)
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- 1
Boil 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
Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- 3
Drain and Set Aside
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Add Flour
Once the butter is melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- 6
Pour in Milk
Gradually add 2 cups of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- 7
Add Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- 8
Season the Sauce
Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- 9
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
- 10
Prepare for Baking (Optional)
If using, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish. Top with 1 cup of bread crumbs and 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- 11
Bake (Optional)
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
Serving
- 12
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven (if baked) and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade mac and cheese!
