Description
Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a decadent and creamy baked pasta dish that combines three types of cheese and a flavorful blend of seasonings. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 pound Colby Jack cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar, yellow preferred, shredded
Other Ingredients:
- 1 pound cavatappi pasta
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Shred the blocks of cheese into a large mixing bowl, then toss together and transfer half to a separate bowl.
- Cook pasta: Cook cavatappi pasta in salted water according to package directions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Seasoning mix: Combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Melt butter in a skillet, add half the seasoning mix, then whisk in flour. Add evaporated milk, heavy cream, remaining seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until thickened.
- Add cheese: Gradually add half of the shredded cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and thick.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
- Layer and bake: Transfer pasta mixture to a baking pan, layer with cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes. Broil for a golden top.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- 1 teaspoon of mustard powder can be used instead of Dijon Mustard.
- Mozzarella cheese can be reduced by up to 1/2 lb.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
