Jul 13 2026

Mac And Cheese Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Creamy macaroni and cheese.

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

Topping (optional)

Method

Cooking the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

  2. 2

    Drain and Set Aside

    Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Making the Cheese Sauce

  1. 3

    Melt the Butter

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

  2. 4

    Add Flour

    Whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.

  3. 5

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 6

    Add Cheese and Seasoning

    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 mustard powder. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Baking

  1. 7

    Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir well until the macaroni is fully coated with the sauce.

  2. 8

    Prepare for Baking (optional)

    If desired, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.

  3. 9

    Add Toppings (optional)

    In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of bread crumbs, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

  4. 10

    Bake (optional)

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. If not baking, skip to the next step.

Serving

  1. 11

    Serve and Enjoy

    Remove the mac and cheese from the oven if baked, let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your creamy macaroni and cheese!

More from The Copper Kettle Mule Bar and Eatery