MAC & CHEESE recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Jul 14 2026

MAC & CHEESE Recipe

Time45m
Serves6

Indulge in our creamy, dreamy Mac & Cheese, featuring perfectly al dente elbow pasta enveloped in a rich blend of aged cheddar and velvety mozzarella. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping, this comforting classic is elevated with a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, making it the ultimate cheesy delight that warms the soul with every bite.

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Ingredients

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General

Breadcrumb Topping

Method

Prep Ingredients

1

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese.

2

Cook Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow pasta and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3

Shred Cheese

Grate the aged cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Set aside in separate bowls.

4

Mince Garlic & Prepare Herbs

Mince a few cloves of garlic and chop fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for garnish.

Make Cheese Sauce

5

Create Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in an equal amount of flour and mix continuously to create a roux, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.

6

Add Milk

Slowly whisk in milk to the roux, avoiding lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

7

Melt Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded aged cheddar and mozzarella cheese gradually, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of optional herbs.

Combine Components

8

Add the drained elbow pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until all pasta is evenly coated.

9

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Add Topping & Bake

10

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

11

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

Serve

12

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving.