Tini’s Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Get ready for comfort food bliss! Tini’s Mac and Cheese is the ultimate baked pasta dish—brimming with three varieties of cheese, swirly cavatappi noodles, and a rich, velvety sauce baked until bubbly and golden on top. This isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for gatherings, family feasts, or whenever you want to treat yourself with a truly memorable homemade classic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component in Tini’s Mac and Cheese plays a starring role: fresh blocks of cheese melt smoother than pre-shredded, and cavatappi’s twists soak up all that saucy goodness. Each ingredient is chosen to deliver maximum flavor, a luscious texture, and that iconic cheesy pull.

• 1 pound mozzarella cheese: Buy a block and shred it yourself for the best melt and creamy stretch—plus, it’s more economical and easier than softer, pre-packed balls.
• 1 pound Colby Jack cheese: This cheese marries tangy and mellow flavors, adding both gooeyness and orange color to the sauce.
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar (yellow preferred): Cheddar brings boldness, a little sharpness, and classic mac flavor to the mix.
• 1 pound cavatappi pasta: These corkscrew noodles are the ultimate sauce catchers—the creamy cheese clings to every curve!
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Just a hint ups the savoriness and brings savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This subtle spice adds color and a faint smoky warmth that sets Tini’s Mac and Cheese apart.
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt: Essential for balancing all the richness and seasoning the sauce just right.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild bite to cut through the cheese.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter: For starting that perfect roux (no bland sauces here!).
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce and yields a silky base.
• 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk: Delivers richness and body without making the sauce too heavy.
• 2 cups heavy cream: For ultra-lush, velvety texture—a real treat.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: A secret ingredient for bright flavor—don’t worry, it won’t taste mustardy! Mustard powder can be used instead, if preferred.
• Fresh chopped parsley: A fresh, green finish for color and contrast.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to let your inner chef shine! Tini’s Mac and Cheese is endlessly adaptable—swap cheeses, sneak in veggies, or amp up the smokiness for a mac that’s totally your own without losing that irresistible creamy bite.

• Extra Smoky: Double the smoked paprika or swap half for chipotle powder for an even bolder, more robust flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli florets, wilted spinach, or caramelized onions before baking for extra nutrition and color.
• Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle the unbaked casserole with buttered panko crumbs or crushed crackers before broiling.
• Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for some of the heavy cream or use reduced-fat cheeses—you’ll still get that satisfying richness.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or diced ham to turn this side into a hearty main event.

How to Make Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prep the Cheese

Start by setting your oven to 350°F so it’s ready for the grand finale. While it warms up, shred your mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses by hand using a box grater for the smoothest result. Mix the three cheeses together, then divide the mixture in half—half for making your sauce, half for those irresistible cheesy layers.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your cavatappi and cook it until just al dente per package instructions—remember, the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so you want it a little firm. Drain and set aside, ready for cheese sauce glory!

Step 3: Mix Your Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and black pepper. It may seem simple, but this mix brings warmth, color, and just the right amount of zing. Set aside—you’ll use half in your roux and half later on in the sauce for building epic flavor.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Roux

In a large skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in half the seasoning mix and stir until fragrant, then add the flour. Whisk it constantly for 1–2 minutes, letting the mixture bubble gently; it’s your ticket to a perfectly thick, smooth cheese sauce.

Step 5: Build the Cheese Sauce

Slowly pour in the evaporated milk, whisking nonstop until the sauce thickens and bubbles in the middle. Stir in the heavy cream, remaining seasoning, and Dijon mustard (or mustard powder) and continue whisking until everything’s luxuriously thick and glossy. Now add half the shredded cheese mix, letting each handful melt before adding the next—you want a silky, creamy sauce kissed with specks of seasoning.

Step 6: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add your piping hot cavatappi right into the cheese sauce. Gently fold until all those hollows and curves are overflowing with sauce. This is when the kitchen starts to smell downright irresistible!

Step 7: Layer & Bake

Spoon half of the cheesy pasta into a 9×13-inch baking pan, then scatter a third of the reserved cheese mix over top. Add the rest of your mac and cheese, then finish with all that glorious remaining cheese. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. For a touch of bubbly, golden perfection, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Let it rest for a few minutes, then finish with scattered fresh parsley for a pop of green and freshness. Now comes the best part—dishing up and digging in while it’s hot, creamy, and extra cheesy.

How to Serve Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

The classic touch for Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a shower of bright, fresh chopped parsley—its verdant pop makes the dish as beautiful as it is tasty. If you want to lean extra gourmet, try a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan or even a pinch more smoked paprika right before serving, for another layer of aroma and color.

Side Dishes

Pair up with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette or simple roasted veggies to balance the decadent richness. Garlic bread is always a winner for soaking up every bit of sauce, and for a cozy family meal, buttery green beans or roasted tomatoes are just perfect alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For individual servings, bake Tini’s Mac and Cheese in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a restaurant-style touch. You can also serve it scooped into hollowed bell peppers for a fun, colorful twist, or as a show-stopping side at your next potluck—just watch the compliments roll in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Tini’s Mac and Cheese keeps like a dream! Cool leftovers completely, then cover the pan tightly or transfer to airtight containers. They’ll hold in the fridge for up to 4 days—perfect for next-day lunches or midnight cravings.

Freezing

You can freeze baked mac and cheese for up to three months. Cool thoroughly, then wrap the whole pan or individual portions in a double layer of plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

For oven reheating, cover the casserole with foil and warm at 350°F until hot, about 20–30 minutes. Sprinkle with a splash of cream or milk to restore that creamy texture. Individual servings are just as tasty rewarmed gently in the microwave.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If comfort food had a queen, Tini’s Mac and Cheese would wear the crown! Whether you’re whipping it up for a big celebration, potluck, or cozy night in, this ultra-creamy, golden-topped baked mac and cheese brings joy to every forkful. Gather your ingredients, invite the people you love, and make this dreamy dish a new family tradition—you won’t regret it!

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