Macaroni (elbow) Cooking Time — Boil 7-8 min for Al Dente

Overview

Macaroni (elbow) cooking time: 7-8 min in boiling salted water. For mac and cheese: cook 1 min less than package — finishes in sauce. Small shape cooks quickly.

Key Details

• Cook Time: 7-8 min
• Water: Boiling, heavily salted (should taste like sea water)
• For mac and cheese: cook 1 min less than package — finishes in sauce. Small shape cooks quickly.
• Al dente: slight resistance when bitten (1-2 min less than package time)
• Use 4-6 quarts water per pound of pasta

Why This Matters

• Pasta cooking time varies significantly by shape and size
• Al dente pasta has lower glycemic index than overcooked
• Proper pasta water salt level is key to pasta flavor

How To

1. 1Bring large pot of water to rolling boil
2. 2Add salt generously (1-2 tbsp per pound)
3. 3Add macaroni (elbow), stir immediately
4. 4Cook 7-8 min for al dente
5. 5Save 1 cup pasta water before draining — starchy water helps sauce cling
6. 6For mac and cheese: cook 1 min less than package — finishes in sauce. Small shape cooks quickly.

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