Mac + Cheese Recipe
Make Mac + Cheese Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Toppings (optional)
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- 4
Melt Butter
In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- 5
Add Flour
Once melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- 7
Add Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- 8
Season Sauce
Add 0.5 tsp salt, 0.25 tsp black pepper, and 0.25 tsp paprika to the cheese sauce, stirring well.
Combining and Serving
- 9
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
- 10
Prepare Optional Toppings
If desired, mix 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs with 0.5 cups of grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
- 11
Serve
Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls, and if using toppings, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top before serving.
