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Viral Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 77 reviews
  • Author: Jasmine
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Tini Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe featuring a blend of mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses. The sauce is made by whisking a roux with evaporated milk and heavy cream, creating a smooth, cheesy base seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, and white pepper. Baked until bubbly and golden, this comforting dish is perfect for holidays or any cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 Lb Cavatappi pasta (or elbow macaroni)

Cheese

  • 1 Lb Mozzarella (16 OZ shredded)
  • 1 Lb Colby Jack (16 OZ shredded)
  • 1/2 Lb Sharp cheddar (8 OZ shredded)

Dairy & Cream Sauce

  • 12 Ounces Evaporated milk (1 Can)
  • 2 Cups Heavy whipping cream
  • 3 Tablespoons Unsalted butter
  • 3 Tablespoons All purpose flour

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon White pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the cavatappi pasta in salted water following package instructions, about 7 minutes for al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a heavy-bottomed pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly until the mixture forms a paste and cooks slightly.
  3. Add Evaporated Milk: Gradually pour in the evaporated milk while whisking continuously until the sauce begins to bubble and thicken.
  4. Add Heavy Cream: Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly add the heavy whipping cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce.
  5. Incorporate Cheese: Combine all shredded cheeses and divide in half. Add a small handful of cheese to the sauce at a time, whisking vigorously and waiting for it to melt fully before adding more, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture. This process takes about 20 minutes.
  6. Season the Sauce: Stir in salt, white pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard to enhance the cheese sauce’s flavor.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until all noodles are evenly coated.
  8. Layer in Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half the pasta mixture, then top with half of the reserved shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and cheese to create two layers.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until the cheese topping is melted and slightly browned.
  10. Broil for Crispness: Optionally, broil on low for 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a golden brown top, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  11. Rest and Serve: Allow the baked mac and cheese to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let it set and cool slightly.

Notes

  • This viral mac and cheese recipe from TikTok creator Tini has over 100 million views and is an excellent choice for holiday gatherings and comfort food cravings.
  • Use mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar for a blend of melt and flavor.
  • Take your time melting the cheese into the sauce to avoid clumping.
  • Broiling the dish briefly at the end caramelizes the cheese topping beautifully.
  • Letting the mac and cheese rest after baking helps it firm up for easier serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Find it online: https://jmrecipes.com/viral-tini-mac-and-cheese-recipe/