Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
This Tini’s Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and baked just right. It has layers of gooey mozzarella, Colby Jack, and cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for family meals, holidays, or anytime you want a tasty, cheesy dish.
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Why I Love This Viral Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
There are many reasons why this recipe is so loved:
- Super creamy and cheesy: The sauce is made with three kinds of cheese and cream, making every bite rich.
- Perfect texture: Cavatappi noodles are chewy and hold the sauce well.
- Easy to follow: The step-by-step instructions are simple, and you don’t need fancy equipment.
- Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Customizable: You can add bacon, breadcrumbs, or even a spicy twist for a unique touch.
Tini’s Mac and Cheese Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish for 8 servings:
- 1 pound cavatappi pasta
- 16 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 16 oz Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
These ingredients combine to make a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to each noodle, creating a rich and comforting dish.
Why I Love This Viral Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe
There are many reasons why this recipe is so loved:
- Super creamy and cheesy: The sauce is made with three kinds of cheese and cream, making every bite rich.
- Perfect texture: Cavatappi noodles are chewy and hold the sauce well.
- Easy to follow: The step-by-step instructions are simple, and you don’t need fancy equipment.
- Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Customizable: You can add bacon, breadcrumbs, or even a spicy twist for a unique touch.
Cheesy Baked Mac & Cheese
Make creamy, cheesy Tini’s Mac & Cheese at home! Easy layers of pasta and rich cheese sauce baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta or elbow macaroni, cooked
- 16 oz mozzarella cheese shredded
- 16 oz Colby Jack cheese shredded
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 12 oz can evaporated milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and half the spices, whisking for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
- Add milk & cream: Gradually pour in evaporated milk, whisking constantly. Stir in heavy cream and remaining spices until sauce thickens.
- Add cheese: Slowly fold in half of the shredded cheeses, one handful at a time, until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta & sauce: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
- Layer & bake: Pour half the pasta mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with half the remaining cheese. Add the rest of the pasta and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Rest & serve: Let it sit 5–10 minutes before serving for best results.
Notes
Tips & Variations:
- For extra flavor, mix in 1/2 tsp smoked paprika into the sauce.
- Swap cavatappi with fusilli or penne for a different noodle texture.
- Add cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions for a tasty twist.
