Go Back
Tini’s Mac and Cheese

TINI’s MAC AND CHEESE

Sofia Brown
Experience the viral TikTok sensation with Tini’s Mac and Cheese, a dish that has captivated food lovers everywhere!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 649 kcal

Notes

Equipment : 

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Cheese grater rotary preferred
  • Large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients : 

  • 1 pound mozzarella cheese (Get a block from the deli; it's harder, cheaper, and easier to shred than the softer packaged balls.)
  • 1 pound Colby Jack cheese
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar (yellow preferred)
  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions : 

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Prepare the cheese:

Shred 1 pound mozzarella, 1 pound Colby Jack, and 8 ounces sharp cheddar into a large mixing bowl. Toss to combine, then transfer half to a separate bowl.

Cook the pasta:

Boil 1 pound Cavatappi pasta in salted water until al dente, following package directions. Drain and set aside.

Mix the seasonings:

In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon coarse salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.

Make the roux:

Melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in half the seasoning mix.

Create the cheese sauce:

  • Add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes until bubbling.
  • Slowly pour in 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk, whisking constantly. When it begins to bubble in the center, add 2 cups heavy cream, the remaining seasoning, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Whisk until thickened.
  • Stir in half of the shredded cheese mixture, adding a handful at a time until fully melted and smooth.

Assemble the mac and cheese:

  • Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
  • Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking pan, then sprinkle with a third of the remaining cheese.
  • Add the rest of the mac and cheese on top, then finish with the remaining cheese.

Bake & serve:

  • Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and enjoy!

Recipe Notes : 

  • You can use 1 teaspoon of mustard powder instead of Dijon Mustard.
  • You can reduce Mozzarella cheese up to ½ lb.