Mac & Cheese recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Aug 04 2026
RestaurantsSalt + SmokeMac & Cheese Recipe

Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Salt + Smoke
Time1h
Serves4

Creamy and cheesy goodness.

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

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Macaroni

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 2

    Make the Roux

    In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly and golden.

  2. 3

    Add Milk

    Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

  3. 4

    Add Cheeses and Seasoning

    Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Continue to stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Baking

  1. 5

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined and the pasta is evenly coated.

  2. 6

    Prepare for Baking

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish.

  3. 7

    Add Toppings

    In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

  4. 8

    Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serving

  1. 9

    Serve

    Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy and cheesy goodness!

More from Salt + Smoke