Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsEmil's HideawayKid's Mac & Cheese Recipe

Kid's Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Emil's Hideaway
Time30m
Serves4

Make Kid's 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

Toppings (Optional)

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water.

  2. 2

    Cook Elbow Macaroni

    Once the water is boiling, add 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions for al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

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

Making Cheese Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

    In the same pot used for the pasta, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.

  2. 5

    Make Roux

    Add 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to the melted butter, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

    Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper, 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of mustard powder until everything is melted and smooth.

Combine and Serve

  1. 8

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine, ensuring all pasta is coated with the sauce.

  2. 9

    Optional Toppings

    If desired, mix in 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs and 0.25 cups of grated Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.

  3. 10

    Serve

    Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your kid-friendly mac & cheese!

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