Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, Tini’s Mac and Cheese is about to become your new obsession! This baked mac and cheese combines three cheeses, a creamy, rich sauce, and corkscrew pasta, all broiled to bubbly, golden perfection. Every bite is a melt-in-your-mouth hug—the perfect blend of nostalgia and gourmet magic.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Tini’s Mac and Cheese so special is the way classic, everyday ingredients are elevated into something truly unforgettable. Each cheese, seasoning, and splash of dairy plays its role—there are no fillers, only flavor and creamy comfort in every layer.

• Block Mozzarella Cheese: Choose a deli block; it shreds easily, melts evenly, and gives a creamy pull without the extra moisture of packaged balls.
• Colby Jack Cheese: The beautiful marbled cheese brings mellow flavor and a hint of buttery smoothness—perfect for balancing the sharpness.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (yellow): The bold, tangy backbone of classic mac and cheese; go for a block you shred yourself for maximum meltiness.
• Cavatappi Pasta: These corkscrews aren’t just cute—they’re champions at hanging onto every bit of that luscious cheese sauce.
• Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: A flavor-savvy combo that gives gentle warmth and a subtle smoky twist.
• Coarse Salt & Black Pepper: Brings out the best in every ingredient and keeps the seasoning zingy.
• Salted Butter: The rich, savory base for your roux, which is the secret to a thick, silken sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: Just enough to create a roux that thickens, never clumps.
• Evaporated Milk: Its concentrated creaminess means your sauce is decadently rich without needing huge amounts of cream.
• Heavy Cream: Adds extra body and a restaurant-level velvety texture to your cheese sauce.
• Dijon Mustard: The gentle tang that wakes up all the cheese flavors—no one will guess this magic touch.
• Fresh Parsley: A pop of freshness and color for the final flourish—it’s optional but oh-so lovely.

Variations

Let your creativity shine with Tini’s Mac and Cheese! This recipe is ultra-forgiving—it was born to be personalized. Swap, add, or play with ingredients to make it your very own comfort classic, whether you’re craving extra veggies or need a gluten-free version.

• Bacon Lovers’ Upgrade: Stir in crispy bacon bits before baking for smoky, salty pops in every cheesy bite.
• Veggie Packed: Fold in sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted red peppers to get a boost of color and nutrition (plus, it’s a sneaky way to impress picky eaters).
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat—a total game changer if you’re a spice fan.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux to make this dish celiac-friendly without sacrificing texture.

How to Make Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Shred the Cheese

Start by shredding your mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar blocks. Using a box grater, shred all the cheeses and toss them together in a large mixing bowl. It might feel like a mountain of cheese—but trust me, every curly strand is worth it. Set aside half of this mixture for the sauce and keep the rest for layering and topping your mac and cheese later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the cavatappi pasta until just shy of al dente (about a minute less than the package says). Remember, the pasta finishes cooking in the oven, so keeping it slightly firm ensures it won’t go mushy. Drain and set aside—don’t rinse, those starches help the sauce cling beautifully!

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and freshly ground black pepper. You’ll split this bold blend between the roux and the cheese sauce, making sure every layer is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce

Melt the salted butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Stir in half the seasoning mix, then add the flour. Whisk continuously—this step forms a fragrant roux (butter and flour) that thickens your sauce. After about 1-2 minutes (when it smells toasty and is bubbling), pour in the evaporated milk and keep whisking as it thickens and bubbles at the center. Add heavy cream, the rest of the seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Continue whisking until the mixture is glossy and thick—now you’re ready for cheese magic!

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Add half of the shredded cheese to the sauce, a handful at a time, stirring gently so it melts and forms a gorgeous, velvety blanket. Don’t rush this step—let the cheese fully integrate for the smoothest, creamiest result.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Pour your drained, perfectly cooked cavatappi straight into the skillet (or a jumbo mixing bowl, if easier). Stir gently to coat every twirl and nook with that hot, cheesy sauce. This is where the aroma gets truly irresistible—taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Layer and Bake

Spoon half the cheesy pasta mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a third of the reserved cheese mixture over the top for instant layers of deliciousness. Repeat with the rest of the pasta, topping with the remaining cheese. Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, then switch to broil for a minute or two until the cheese bubbles up golden brown—in other words, perfection!

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Once you see that bubbly, dreamy crust, take the mac and cheese out and set it aside for a couple minutes to help everything set up. Scatter fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of freshness. Now, scoop, serve, and get ready for happy faces at the table.

How to Serve Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh parsley chopped and scattered over the top is classic, but for something extra, try a dusting of smoked paprika or even a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving. These little finishing touches bring a pop of color and flavor to every creamy, comforting bite.

Side Dishes

Tini’s Mac and Cheese shines as the main event but plays nicely with so many sides—think crisp green salads, roasted broccoli, tangy slaw, or garlicky sautéed greens. For a classic Southern twist, serve it alongside fried chicken or barbecue for an epic feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or potlucks, scoop the mac into ramekins for individual portions or bake it in a cast iron skillet for rustic charm. Dress up your Tini’s Mac and Cheese with edible flowers, microgreens, or a dramatic sprinkle of spicy panko crumbs for crunch and visual flair!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—just know that flavors meld and get even cozier as they sit (hello, irresistible midnight snack potential!).

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Tini’s Mac and Cheese! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently for best texture—ideal for meal prep or make-ahead gatherings.

Reheating

For creamy results, reheat gently in the oven (covered) at 325°F until hot throughout; add a splash of milk or cream if needed. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just warm in short bursts, stirring between rounds to keep things smooth and melty.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If your heart beats for creamy, cheesy comfort, you simply cannot skip Tini’s Mac and Cheese. It’s pure happiness in casserole form and guaranteed to win rave reviews from every corner of the table. So come on—gather those simple ingredients, turn up your favorite playlist, and let this special mac and cheese become an instant favorite in your home too!

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