Mac & Cheese recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Jun 09 2026
Restaurants›The Stillery›Mac & Cheese Recipe

Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by The Stillery
Time45m
Serves6

Cavatappi, house cheese sauce, baked with buttery breadcrumbs – add hot chicken

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Cheese Sauce

Breadcrumb Topping

Optional Topping

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Cavatappi

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

Cheese Sauce Preparation

  1. 2

    Make the Roux

    In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden, stirring constantly.

  2. 3

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 4

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste.

Combine and Assemble

  1. 5

    Mix Pasta and Sauce

    In a large bowl, combine the cooked cavatappi and cheese sauce. If using, fold in the shredded hot chicken at this point until evenly distributed.

  2. 6

    Prepare Breadcrumb Topping

    In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and paprika until the breadcrumbs are well-coated.

  3. 7

    Bake the Mac & Cheese

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the breadcrumb mixture. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve

  1. 8

    Enjoy!

    Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade mac & cheese!

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