Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPreserveMacaroni And Cheese Recipe

Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Preserve
Time30m
Serves4

Make Macaroni And 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 the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water.

  2. 2

    Cook Macaroni

    Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

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

Making the Cheese Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

    In the same pot used for the macaroni, melt the butter over medium heat.

  2. 5

    Add Flour

    Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using) until smooth.

Combining and Serving

  1. 8

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni back into the cheese sauce and stir well to combine.

  2. 9

    Serve or Bake

    You can serve the macaroni and cheese as is or transfer it to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes for a crispy topping.

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