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Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese (Viral Recipe) Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 54 reviews

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, decadent, and family-friendly dish featuring a blend of Colby Jack, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar cheeses combined with a creamy sauce made from evaporated milk, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Baked to bubbly perfection with a golden, crispy top, it can be served as a main or side dish and even prepared ahead, making it a versatile favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta

  • 16 oz box cavatappi pasta (or elbow macaroni)

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 16 oz Colby Jack cheese (two 8-ounce blocks)
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded, use hard block mozzarella)
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese

For Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Base

  • 3 tablespoons salted butter (plus more for greasing the baking dish)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 casserole dish thoroughly with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  2. Prepare Your Cheeses: Grate all cheeses – Colby Jack, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar – and mix them together in a bowl. Divide this cheese mixture in half. Store one half in a zip-top bag in the fridge for layering later.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Stir in half of the seasoning mixture (smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper). Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it lightly bubbles and forms a roux.
  5. Add Dairy Ingredients: Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk and heavy cream, ensuring the sauce stays smooth. Stir in the remaining seasoning and the Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a low boil, allowing it to thicken slightly while stirring frequently.
  6. Combine Cheeses: Add half of the grated cheese mixture gradually into the sauce, using a spatula to help melt the cheese fully until the sauce is rich and smooth.
  7. Mix Pasta with Sauce: Gently fold the drained pasta into the creamy cheese sauce until all pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  8. Layer in Casserole Dish: Transfer half of the macaroni and cheese mixture into the greased casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining cheese over the top. Add the remaining macaroni and cheese on top, followed by the final layer of cheese to finish.
  9. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. For a crispy golden top, optionally broil for 3-4 minutes at the end. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more garlic powder or smoked paprika for bolder flavors.
  • Use high-quality block cheeses and shred them yourself for the best melt and flavor.
  • Feel free to substitute the pasta with shells or penne for different textures.
  • Add an extra splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese during the sauce preparation for a richer, creamier dish.
  • Watch the casserole carefully during broiling to prevent burning the top.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead of time; refrigerate after assembling and bake when ready to serve.

Keywords: Macaroni and Cheese, Tini's Mac and Cheese, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, baked mac and cheese, family recipe, creamy cheese sauce

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