Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Windmill & Bar 51Windmill Mac & Cheese Recipe

Windmill Mac & Cheese Recipe

Time1h
Serves6

choice of sriracha chicken bites, lobster or shrimp tossed with cavatappi pasta and our deluxe cheese blend & topped with crispy panko

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

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

Protein Preparation

  1. 2

    Prepare the Protein

    If using sriracha chicken bites, cook them according to package instructions. For shrimp, sauté in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil for 4-5 minutes until pink and opaque. If using lobster, ensure it is cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Cheese Sauce

  1. 3

    Make the Cheese Sauce

    In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Combine and Bake

  1. 4

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and your choice of protein (sriracha chicken bites, lobster, or shrimp). Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

  2. 5

    Prepare for Baking

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.

  3. 6

    Make the Topping

    In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

  4. 7

    Add Topping and Bake

    Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Serve

  1. 8

    Serve Warm

    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the Windmill Mac & Cheese warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

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