Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsThe Farm Bar and GrilleMac & Cheese Recipe

Mac & Cheese Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Make Mac & 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

Topping (Optional)

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Cook Pasta

    Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

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

  2. 5

    Add Flour

    Once the butter is melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of mustard powder until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combining and Serving

  1. 8

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

  2. 9

    Prepare Topping (Optional)

    If using, combine 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs, 0.25 cups of grated Parmesan cheese, and 0.5 teaspoon of paprika in a small bowl.

  3. 10

    Serve

    If you desire a crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden. Otherwise, serve immediately as is.

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