Jul 14 2026

Mac N Cheese Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Make Mac N 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

Cheese Sauce

Toppings (optional)

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil.

  2. 2

    Cook Pasta

    Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 3

    Melt Butter

    In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

  2. 4

    Add Flour

    Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.

  3. 5

    Add Milk

    Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

  4. 6

    Add Cheese and Seasoning

    Remove the pot from heat and add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining

  1. 7

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.

  2. 8

    Prepare Optional Topping

    If using, mix 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs and 0.5 cups of grated parmesan cheese in a small bowl.

  3. 9

    Top and Bake (optional)

    Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

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