Mac & Cheese Recipe

Time30m

Serves4

Creamy mac and cheese made to order.

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.

1
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
3
Add Cheese and Seasonings
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
4
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
5
Bake (Optional)
If desired, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
6
Serve
Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into bowls and enjoy!