Tini’s Viral Tiktok Mac And Cheese Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, cheesy mac and cheese especially when it brings back nostalgic flavors. This family favorite combines tender pasta with a creamy, gooey sauce that's sure to have everyone asking for seconds.

I first stumbled upon this recipe while scrolling through TikTok, where it had taken the internet by storm. Intrigued by its simplicity and the rave reviews, I decided to give it a try. Now, it's a staple in our household, perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Mac and Cheese

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food. This mac and cheese isn't just delicious—it's a game-changer for home cooks everywhere.

First off, you won't believe how quick and easy it is to put together. While it tastes like it's been simmering all day, this dish comes together in just about 45 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight.

Your wallet will thank you too. Using simple, affordable ingredients means you can feed a family of four without breaking the bank, making it as budget-friendly as it is delicious.

Best of all, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you're dealing with picky eaters or looking to use up leftovers, this dish adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this mac and cheese lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The pasta forms the foundation of this dish. I recommend using cavatappi (corkscrew) pasta, as its spiral shape helps catch and hold onto the creamy sauce. While you could use other shapes, cavatappi works best for an optimal sauce-to-pasta ratio.

For the cheese, a blend of mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar creates a harmonious flavor profile. The mozzarella adds a gooey stretchiness, Colby Jack offers a mild creaminess, and sharp cheddar provides a tangy depth. Be sure to shred the cheese yourself; pre-shredded varieties often contain additives that can affect melting.

The sauce starts with a combination of evaporated milk and heavy cream. This duo creates a rich and velvety base that's not overly heavy. The evaporated milk adds a subtle sweetness, while the heavy cream contributes to the luxurious texture.

A touch of Dijon mustard is added to the sauce, lending a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cheese. Don't worry, it won't make the dish taste like mustard; it simply enhances the overall flavor.

A blend of spices including garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper adds depth and complexity to the dish. The smoked paprika imparts a gentle smokiness that complements the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.

How To Make This Mac and Cheese

Creating this mouthwatering mac and cheese is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prep the Cheese – Shred the mozzarella, Colby Jack, and cheddar cheese. Mix them together and divide into two portions—one for the sauce and one for layering.

Make the Roux – In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and stir in half of the spice blend. Sprinkle in flour and whisk for a minute until it forms a bubbling paste.

Create the Sauce – Gradually whisk in evaporated milk, then add heavy cream, the remaining spice blend, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.

Melt the Cheese – Reduce heat to low and slowly add half of the shredded cheese mixture, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

Combine & Bake – Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, then layer in a greased baking dish with the remaining cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Let it Rest – Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making for easier scooping.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my experience!), this mac and cheese stores wonderfully.

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing: Freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to prevent over-browning.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of this mac and cheese recipe is its adaptability.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or even lobster for a decadent twist. Simply stir in your chosen protein when combining the pasta with the cheese sauce.

To incorporate some veggies, mix in steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted butternut squash. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also add delightful textures and flavors.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. While this will result in a slightly less rich sauce, it still maintains a satisfying creaminess.

For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as a blend of rice flour and tapioca starch.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Gouda, fontina, or Gruyère can be excellent substitutes or additions, each bringing its unique flavor profile to the dish.

Remember, recipes are a starting point. Don't be afraid to make adjustments to suit your preferences and what's available in your pantry. Happy cooking!

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