Mac N Cheese Recipe
Make Mac N Cheese Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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.
Pasta
Cheese Sauce
Topping (optional)
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
Making Cheese Sauce
- 4
- 5
Make Roux
Add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- 6
Add Milk
Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- 7
Add Cheese and Seasonings
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika until smooth and creamy.
Combining Ingredients
- 8
Mix Pasta with Sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
Optional Topping
- 9
Prepare Topping
In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of bread crumbs with 0.5 cups of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- 10
Bake Mac and Cheese
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.