If you are craving the ultimate comfort food that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite, look no further than Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe. This delightful dish blends three kinds of cheese with velvety heavy cream and a perfectly seasoned sauce, creating a macaroni and cheese experience that goes far beyond the ordinary. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe promises a luscious, crowd-pleasing meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board on a white marbled surface with two piles of shredded cheese in front. The pile on the left is white cheese with soft, long shreds. Behind and to the right is shredded yellow cheese with a slightly rougher texture. At the back is a block of orange cheese and a metal cheese grater standing upright, with bits of grated cheese stuck to it. A woman's hand is not visible, but implied by the presence of the grater. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the dish’s rich flavors, delightful texture, and inviting golden color that makes it irresistible.

1 pound mozzarella cheese: Use a block from the deli for ease of shredding and better melting quality compared to the softer packaged balls.
1 pound Colby Jack cheese: Adds a smooth, mild flavor and creaminess that balances sharper cheeses well.
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese: Yellow preferred, because it adds a tangy punch and beautiful color to the dish.
1 pound cavatappi pasta: Its spiral shape is perfect for trapping cheesy sauce in every twist.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory depth that enhances the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth that lifts the dish beyond simple cheese sauce.
1 teaspoon coarse salt: Essential for seasoning the pasta and balancing richness.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives just the right kick without overpowering.
3 tablespoons salted butter: Creates a luscious base for the roux and adds richness.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to creamy perfection.
1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk: Contributes smoothness and a slight caramel undertone.
2 cups heavy cream: For indulgent creaminess that clings to every noodle.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the cheese sauce.
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish: Offers a fresh color contrast and a pop of herbal brightness.

How to Make Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Cheeses

Start by shredding all three cheeses — mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar — separately and then tossing them together. Splitting the cheese mixture in half will let you layer the cheesy goodness during baking, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Boil the cavatappi pasta in well-salted water according to the package instructions until just al dente. This cooking method guarantees the pasta retains a slight bite, perfect for absorbing all that rich cheese sauce without turning mushy.

Step 3: Mix Your Seasonings

Combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This seasoning blend infuses the dish with layers of flavor and a touch of warmth, balancing the richness of the dairy beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce

Melt the butter in a skillet, then stir in half the prepared seasoning. Whisk in flour immediately to form a roux, cooking it until it bubbles but stays light in color. Gradually add evaporated milk and whisk constantly for a smooth sauce base. Once it thickens, add heavy cream, the rest of the seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the sauce is luxuriously thick.

Step 5: Melt Cheese Into the Sauce

Add half the shredded cheese mixture a handful at a time, stirring continuously until it’s completely melted into the creamy sauce. This step is where Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe starts to come alive with that irresistible, gooey texture.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Then Layer

Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, coating every piece evenly. Transfer half to a baking dish, sprinkle with a third of the remaining cheese, layer the rest of the pasta and finish with the rest of the cheese to create beautiful cheese layers that melt and brown perfectly in the oven.

Step 7: Bake and Broil for Perfection

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Then switch to broil for 1 to 2 minutes to crisp up the top layer with a bubbly, golden crust that makes this mac and cheese truly special.

How to Serve Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe

A close-up view of a white baking dish full of golden macaroni and cheese. The top layer is bubbly and browned with melted cheese that stretches in long strings as a wooden spoon held by a woman's hand lifts a portion. The macaroni beneath is creamy and bright yellow with a smooth texture. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with green blurred background elements, creating a warm, inviting look photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish your Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe with fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top. The bright green adds a lovely contrast and a hint of freshness that beautifully complements the rich, cheesy layers.

Side Dishes

This mac and cheese shines wonderfully alongside simple green salads, roasted vegetables, or even crispy bacon for an added salty crunch. It’s also a perfect side dish to barbecue or fried chicken, balancing smoky and savory flavors with its creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins straight from the oven, letting each guest enjoy their own piping hot, golden-topped mac and cheese. You can also add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for extra crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps very well in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze this baked mac and cheese either before or after baking. For best results, cool the dish completely, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For that fresh-out-of-the-oven gooey top, uncover and broil for a minute or two at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes in Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While cavatappi is ideal for holding sauce, you can substitute with elbow macaroni, shells, or penne based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook until al dente.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

This version is rich with dairy ingredients for texture and flavor, so a dairy-free or vegan adaptation would require different cheeses and cream substitutes. You could try vegan cheese blends and plant-based milks, but the taste and creaminess will differ from the original.

Can I reduce the cheese quantities without losing flavor?

You can reduce mozzarella by up to half a pound as noted in the recipe tips, but keep in mind that cheese is central to the dish’s creaminess and flavor, so adjust cautiously to maintain that signature rich profile.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard on hand?

A teaspoon of mustard powder is a great substitute if you don’t have Dijon mustard. It adds that subtle tanginess that balances the cheese sauce perfectly without overpowering other flavors.

Why do you recommend evaporated milk instead of regular milk?

Evaporated milk contributes a slightly caramelized, creamy quality to the sauce that regular milk doesn’t provide. This helps create a velvety texture and richer flavor that make Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe stand out.

Final Thoughts

There is just something so wonderfully satisfying about homemade mac and cheese, and Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe hits all the comforting notes you’re craving. It’s creamy, flavorful, and made with love to bring joy to your table. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished favorite you’ll return to over and over. So grab your cheese grater and get ready to dive into cheesy bliss!