Tini mac and cheese recipe

Listen to me! If you’re still eating that boxed rubbish, get out of the kitchen! This Tini mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer, a masterclass in indulgence that will leave your guests speechless. We’re talking about a silky, velvet-smooth sauce and layers of gooey, melted cheese that actually taste like something. It’s bold, it’s rich, and it’s exactly what your soul needs. For a balanced meal, you should serve this alongside some perfectly Roasted Broccoli to cut through the richness. Stop settling for mediocre food and master this Tini mac and cheese recipe right now. Speed and precision, people! Let’s go!

Ingredients for Tini mac and cheese recipe

• Pasta: 1 lb Cavatappi (corkscrew) pasta
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 lb, freshly grated
• Colby Jack Cheese: 1 lb, freshly grated
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 lb (8 oz), freshly grated
• Unsalted Butter: 3 tbsp
• All-purpose Flour: 3 tbsp
• Evaporated Milk: 12 oz (1 can)
• Heavy Cream: 2 cups
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tbsp
• Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
• Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp
• Salt: 1/2 tsp (plus more for boiling water)
• Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp

Instructions to prepare Tini mac and cheese recipe

1. Prep the Cheese: Grate all three blocks of cheese by hand. Mix them in a large bowl. Divide the mixture into two equal portions—one for the sauce and one for layering.
2. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatappi until just al dente, usually 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Make the Roux: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and half of the seasoning mixture. Whisk for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour.
5. Build the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk until smooth, then add the heavy cream and the rest of the seasoning. Whisk until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
6. Add Flavor and Cheese: Whisk in the Dijon mustard. Reduce heat to low. Add the first portion of shredded cheese one handful at a time, whisking until silky.
7. Combine: Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every single noodle is thoroughly coated.
8. Layer: Pour half of the mac and cheese into the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining cheese over it. Add the rest of the pasta, then top with the final portion of cheese.
9. Bake and Broil: Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until bubbly. Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a stunning golden crust. Watch it like a hawk!
10. Serve: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Don't you dare touch it early!

Tini mac and cheese recipe Details

Prep Time: PT20M

Cook Time: PT45M

Total Time: PT1H5M

Servings: 8

Expert Tips

Substitutions for Tini mac and cheese recipe

If you want to elevate this further, swap the Mozzarella for Gruyere for a nutty, sophisticated finish. You can also use large elbow macaroni or shells if you can't find Cavatappi, but the corkscrews hold the sauce best!

Errors to Avoid with Tini mac and cheese recipe

Don't you dare use pre-shredded cheese! It's coated in cellulose which prevents a smooth melt. It will make your sauce grainy and pathetic. Also, do not overcook the pasta in the water; it will turn into mush in the oven.

Alternative Cooking of Tini mac and cheese recipe

For a crunchier texture, mix Panko breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and smoked paprika, then scatter them over the top layer of cheese before baking. It adds a magnificent texture contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tini mac and cheese recipe

Q1: Why use evaporated milk and heavy cream instead of regular milk?

Regular milk is too thin! Evaporated milk and heavy cream provide the fat and protein structure needed for a decadent, stable sauce that won't break or become watery in the oven.

Q2: Can I make this Tini mac and cheese recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. However, bring it to room temperature before baking, or add 10 minutes to the cook time so it heats through properly.

Q3: What makes this "Tini" style specifically?

It’s all about the heavy layering and the specific blend of Mozzarella and Colby Jack which creates that iconic, social-media-famous cheese pull and incredibly rich flavor profile.