Mac & Cheese recipe served on a plate, by Friendly's
Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsFriendly'sMac & Cheese Recipe

Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Friendly's
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

Topping (optional)

Method

Cook Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Cook Macaroni

    Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

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

Make Cheese Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

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

  2. 5

    Add Flour

    Once melted, whisk in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

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

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 0.5 tsp of salt, 0.5 tsp of black pepper, 0.5 tsp of garlic powder, and 0.25 tsp of paprika until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Serve

  1. 8

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.

  2. 9

    Prepare Topping (optional)

    In a small bowl, mix together 0.5 cups of breadcrumbs, 0.25 cups of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter.

  3. 10

    Add Topping (optional)

    Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the mac & cheese if using.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Serve hot and enjoy your creamy mac & cheese!

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