Macaroni & Cheese Recipe
Make Macaroni & Cheese Recipe in just 45m. 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 Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- 2
Cook Macaroni
Once the water is boiling, add the 2 cups of macaroni. 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
Once the butter is melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute.
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- 8
Season Sauce
Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of mustard powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Stir to combine.
Combining and Baking
- 9
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- 10
Prepare for Baking
If using, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.
- 11
Add Topping
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- 12
Bake
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
