Go Back
+ servings
Tini's Mac and Cheese Recipe

Tini's Mac and Cheese Recipe: Irresistibly Creamy & Baked!

Tini's Mac and Cheese Recipe is a creamy, baked pasta dish that delights with its rich flavors and comforting texture.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Corkscrew noodles Feel free to swap with sturdy short pasta like penne or rotini.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Mozzarella, shredded Substitute with Monterey Jack if needed.
  • 2 cups Colby Jack, shredded Can be exchanged with mild cheddar for a similar taste.
  • 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Consider aged cheddar for a deeper taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Use fresh garlic for a stronger taste if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Enhances the overall depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Regular paprika can replace it if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to the saltiness of the cheese.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Adjust according to personal preference.
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Used to create a roux for a creamy cheese sauce.
  • 1/4 cup Flour Thickens the cheese sauce for that decadent texture.
  • 1 can Evaporated milk Regular milk can be used but with a thinner result.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Elevates cheese flavors without being overpowering.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh chives Can substitute with parsley for a different flavor.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 baking dish
  • whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook Pasta: Start by boiling the corkscrew noodles in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set aside while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Make Cheese Sauce: In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Sprinkle in the flour and half of the seasonings, stirring to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk, followed by the heavy cream, mixing until thickened. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until it's all smooth and gooey.
  3. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.
  4. Layer: Grease a 9x13 baking dish with butter. Layer half of the pasta-cheese mixture in the dish, then sprinkle with half of the remaining cheese. Add the remaining pasta on top followed by the last of the cheese for a melty finish.
  5. Bake and Broil: Bake the dish in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until you see the cheese bubbling and melted. For an irresistible crispy crust, broil for an additional 2 minutes. Allow the mac and cheese to rest for 5-10 minutes before diving in!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Top with fresh chives for a delightful burst of color and flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!