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Gooey baked mac and cheese with a golden crispy top

Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy baked masterpiece that became a TikTok sensation. With three kinds of cheese, a velvety roux-based sauce, and a golden crust, this recipe delivers the ultimate cheese pull in every bite!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 1 lb cavatappi pasta or elbow macaroni

Cheese Blend

  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 cups Colby Jack cheese shredded
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Sauce Base

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13 baking dish.
  • Boil the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until a paste forms (roux). Cook for 1–2 minutes.
  • Gradually add evaporated milk and heavy cream while whisking until smooth.
  • Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Add half of the shredded cheese and stir until melted.
  • Mix the pasta into the cheese sauce.
  • Layer half the pasta in the baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese. Repeat layers.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes. Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden top.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Keyword Baked, Cheesy, Mac and Cheese