Tini’s Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of pasta, a creamy cheese sauce, and a blend of mozzarella, colby jack, and sharp cheddar. Baked to perfection, this dish features a gooey interior with a golden, crispy top, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. Serve warm for the best experience!
Tini’s Ultimate Mac and Cheese is the perfect dish for those who crave a comforting, creamy, and cheesy meal. This baked mac and cheese features layers of tender pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce made from mozzarella, colby jack, and sharp cheddar, with a hint of Dijon mustard for added depth. Baked until bubbly with a golden, crispy top, it’s sure to be a family favorite.
INGREDIENTS
- Pasta (Corkscrew/Cavatappi Preferred): Holds onto the creamy cheese sauce well, creating a deliciously textured dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded): Adds a melty, creamy layer to the dish, giving it a rich texture.
- Colby Jack Cheese (Shredded): Blends well with other cheeses, providing a mild and creamy flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese (Sharp Preferred, Shredded): Adds a bolder, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the mozzarella and colby jack.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors in the dish, making each bite more flavorful.
- Freshly Ground Pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the cheese sauce.
Additional Ingredients
- Garlic Powder: Provides a hint of garlic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the mac and cheese.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky undertone, giving the dish a unique flavor profile.
- Unsalted Butter: Forms the base of the roux, helping to create the creamy cheese sauce.
- All-Purpose Flour: Combines with butter to create a roux, thickening the sauce for a rich, creamy texture.
- Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce without thinning it too much.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness, giving the sauce a luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Dijon Mustard: Provides a slight tang that enhances the cheese flavors, adding depth to the dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Cheese
- While the pasta cooks, shred the mozzarella, colby jack, and cheddar cheeses. Use the coarse side of a box grater for easy shredding. Once shredded, mix all the cheese together in a large bowl, then divide into two portions and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Seasoning Mix
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well and set aside.
- Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add half of the seasoning mix, stirring to bring out the flavors. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to bubble and appears smooth.
- Step 5: Add Milk and Cream
- Slowly pour in the evaporated milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Follow with the heavy cream, whisking continuously. Stir in the Dijon mustard and the remaining seasoning mix, allowing the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Whisk occasionally until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Add Cheese to the Sauce
- Turn the heat to low, then add HALF of the shredded cheese mixture to the sauce, one handful at a time. Stir until each handful melts completely before adding more.
- Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated with the creamy mixture.
- Step 8: Layer the Mac and Cheese
- In a casserole dish, add half of the mac and cheese mixture and spread it evenly. Layer with half of the remaining shredded cheese. Add the rest of the mac and cheese, then finish with the remaining cheese on top.
- Step 9: Bake and Broil
- Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is melted and bubbly. For a crispy crust, broil for 2 minutes. Remove from the oven, let sit briefly, and enjoy.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Tini’s Mac and Cheese warm, straight from the oven for the best texture and flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for added color.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
- This dish can be made ahead by preparing the mac and cheese up to the baking step, covering tightly, and refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Bake as instructed when ready to serve.
Helpful Notes
- For a creamier sauce, avoid over-baking. Keep an eye on the cheese top, and cover with foil if it browns too quickly.
- Customize the dish by adding mix-ins such as crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or a breadcrumb topping before baking for extra texture.
- Feel free to use different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Fontina, to create a unique flavor profile.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten suggests using quality cheeses for a richer flavor, ensuring each bite is full of depth and creaminess.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends allowing mac and cheese to rest briefly after baking to let the flavors meld and the sauce to set slightly.
- Chef Martha Stewart advises using a blend of cheeses for complexity in flavor and a balance of creaminess and meltiness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This mac and cheese recipe is incredibly creamy, with a cheesy sauce that clings to each pasta curl for ultimate comfort in every bite.
- The baked layers and crispy top create a beautiful contrast in textures, making each serving indulgent and satisfying.
- It’s a versatile dish perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks, as it’s both crowd-pleasing and easy to make ahead.
Variations
- For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce or use smoked cheddar.
- Make it a protein-packed meal by stirring in cooked chicken, ham, or bacon bits before baking.
- Add a breadcrumb topping before baking for a crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.