Mac N' Cheese Recipe
Make Mac N' Cheese Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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
Topping (Optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring 4-6 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Add Flour
Whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until lightly golden, to create a roux.
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese
Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- 8
Season Sauce
Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir until fully combined.
Combining and Serving
- 9
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
- 10
Prepare Topping (Optional)
If using, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of paprika in a small bowl.
- 11
Bake (Optional)
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- 12
Serve
Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls or plates and serve hot. Enjoy!
