Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese (Viral Recipe) Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 127 reviews
  • Author: Hugo
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made with cavatappi pasta and a blend of colby jack, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar cheeses. This baked macaroni and cheese recipe features a rich cheese sauce made with evaporated milk, heavy cream, and a hint of dijon mustard, all topped with a seasoned cheese crust. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 16 oz cavatappi pasta

Cheese Mix

  • 16 oz colby jack cheese, grated
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Seasonings & Flavorings

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

Dairy & Fats

  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Grate and Mix Cheeses: Grate all the cheeses—colby jack, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar—and combine them in a bowl. Reserve half of this cheese mixture for layering later in the dish.
  3. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  4. Make Seasoned Butter Mixture: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and add half of the smoked paprika and garlic powder, stirring to combine and infuse the butter with flavor.
  5. Create Cheese Sauce Base: Whisk in flour to the seasoned melted butter in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until bubbling to cook out the raw flour taste.
  6. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and brings to a gentle low boil, which helps thicken the sauce.
  7. Melt Cheese and Combine Pasta: Stir half of the mixed cheeses into the sauce until melted and smooth, then fold in the cooked cavatappi pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
  8. Layer Macaroni Mixture: Spread half of the macaroni and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, then sprinkle half of the reserved cheese mixture over the top to create a cheesy layer.
  9. Top and Finish Baking: Add the remaining macaroni mixture on top followed by the rest of the reserved cheese mixture for a golden cheese crust.
  10. Bake and Broil: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Optionally broil for 3-4 minutes at the end to achieve a crispy, browned cheese topping. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning blend if you prefer more or less smokiness or garlic flavor.
  • Broil at the end carefully to avoid burning the cheese topping.
  • For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half, though it may affect richness.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cavatappi pasta, cheese sauce, Tini's macaroni and cheese, creamy pasta bake

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://flavorsbyhugo.com/tinis-macaroni-and-cheese-viral-recipe-recipe/