Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Lumen8 Rooftop Social›Cavatappi Cheddar Mac Recipe

Cavatappi Cheddar Mac Recipe

Inspired by Lumen8 Rooftop Social
Time50m
Serves4

Make Cavatappi Cheddar Mac Recipe in just 50m. 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

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Cavatappi

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Cheese Sauce Preparation

  1. 2

    Make the Roux

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, stirring constantly.

  2. 3

    Add Milk

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

  3. 4

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Bake

  1. 5

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cavatappi pasta with the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure all pasta is coated.

  2. 6

    Prepare Topping

    In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika.

  3. 7

    Bake

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

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