Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsSpeziaMacaroni And Cheese Recipe

Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Spezia
Time40m
Serves4

Make Macaroni And Cheese Recipe in just 40m. 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 water to a boil. 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 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, add the flour to the butter and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasoning

    Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Baking

  1. 8

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to combine, ensuring all pasta is coated.

  2. 9

    Prepare for Baking

    If using, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish.

  3. 10

    Add Topping

    In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish.

  4. 11

    Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

  5. 12

    Serve

    Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese!

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