Great American Mini Mac & Cheese Recipe
Make Great American Mini Mac & Cheese Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta and Cheese Base
Topping
Method
Pasta Preparation
- 1
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and then the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce Preparation
- 2
Make the Cheese Sauce
In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- 3
Add Milk
Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- 4
Incorporate Cheeses
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully melted and combined.
Combine and Bake
- 5
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated.
- 6
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Mix well.
- 7
Transfer and Top
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
- 8
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- 9
Garnish and Serve
Optionally, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Great American Mini Mac & Cheese!