Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsWilla'sMac & Cheese Recipe

Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Willa'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

Cheese Sauce

Topping (Optional)

Method

Cook the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.

  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 macaroni in a colander and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

  2. 5

    Add Flour

    Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden to create a roux.

  3. 6

    Add Milk

    Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder until smooth and creamy.

Combine and Serve

  1. 8

    Mix Pasta and Sauce

    In a large bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated.

  2. 9

    Optional Topping

    If using, mix the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese together and sprinkle on top of the mac and cheese.

  3. 10

    Bake (Optional)

    Transfer to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes if you added the topping.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Serve warm and enjoy your delicious homemade mac & cheese!

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