Mac & Cheese recipe served on a plate, by Preserve
Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPreserveMac & Cheese Recipe

Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Preserve
Time30m
Serves4

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

Topping (optional)

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.

  2. 2

    Cook Macaroni

    Add the macaroni pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

    In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.

  2. 5

    Add Flour

    Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux, stirring constantly.

  3. 6

    Pour in Milk

    Slowly add the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasoning

    Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Serving

  1. 8

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

  2. 9

    Prepare Topping (optional)

    In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika.

  3. 10

    Serve

    Serve the mac and cheese warm, optionally topped with the breadcrumb mixture for added crunch.

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