Mac & Cheese Recipe
Make Mac & Cheese Recipe in just 55m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta & Cheese Base
Cheeses
Topping (optional)
Method
Pasta & Cheese Base
- 1
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbs salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente according to package instructions (about 7–8 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- 2
Make a roux
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tbs unsalted butter. Add 4 tbs all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the raw flour smell cooks out and the mixture is lightly golden (do not let it brown).
- 3
Build the béchamel
Slowly whisk in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream in a steady stream to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens and just begins to simmer, about 5–7 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in up to 1/4–1/2 cup reserved pasta water to reach a creamy consistency.
- 4
Season the sauce
Reduce heat to low and whisk in 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp ground black pepper, and 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste). Taste and correct seasoning before adding cheese.
- 5
Add the cheeses
Remove the sauce from heat. Gradually add 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup grated Gruyère, stirring after each addition until fully melted and smooth. Stir in 1 tsp finely grated Parmesan for depth. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water at a time until desired creaminess is reached.
- 6
Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and gently fold until all pasta is coated. Keep warm over the lowest heat for 1–2 minutes while you prepare the topping (if using) or serve immediately for a creamier mac & cheese.
Topping (optional)
- 7
Prepare the topping
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbs melted butter, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, and 1/2 tsp fine sea salt. Toss until crumbs are evenly coated.
- 8
Assemble and bake
Transfer the mac & cheese to a 9x9 or similarly sized baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko topping over the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. For an extra golden crust, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
- 9
Finish and serve
Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with a little extra chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.