Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

Posted on February 20, 2025

Gramma Rosie

Rich and creamy Tini's Mac and Cheese with a golden breadcrumb topping, served in a rustic casserole dish on a wooden table

Lunch

Image: Grama Recipes

5.0 from 1 vote

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Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a cozy family meal, or simply indulging in a personal treat, Tini’s Mac and Cheese recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and satisfaction. With its rich sauce and golden topping, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Mac and cheese has been a beloved classic for decades, and every cook has their spin on it. What sets Tini’s Mac and Cheese recipe apart is its versatility and indulgent flavor profile. Featuring a blend of cheeses, a silky sauce, and a perfectly crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a dish that turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable experience.

So, let’s explore the steps to make this comfort classic at home. From selecting the right pasta to perfecting the cheese sauce, this recipe is your ultimate guide to creamy, golden perfection.

Why Make Tini’s Mac and Cheese?

Mac and cheese isn’t just food—it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. Here’s why Tini’s Mac and Cheese recipe is worth trying:

1. Creamy and Dreamy Texture

This recipe is crafted to deliver the ultimate creaminess. The combination of milk, cream, and multiple cheeses ensures a rich and velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly.

2. Easy to Make

With simple, everyday ingredients and a straightforward process, even novice cooks can master this recipe. Whether you’re cooking for two or preparing a dish for a crowd, the process is easy to scale.

3. Customizable

From adding crispy bacon to experimenting with different cheese blends, this recipe offers endless possibilities for personalization. You can even make it gluten-free or lighter based on your preferences.

4. Crowd Pleaser

Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or holiday feast, this dish is guaranteed to win hearts. Its golden, crispy topping adds a satisfying crunch to the creamy base, making it a hit with everyone.

If you’re a fan of indulgent comfort food, be sure to explore our Olympics Chocolate Muffins or the unique Tanghulu Recipe for more delicious inspirations.

The History of Mac and Cheese

While mac and cheese is often thought of as a quintessential American dish, its origins trace back to Italy. The earliest known recipes for macaroni combined with cheese date to the 14th century. The dish gained popularity in the United States during the 18th century, becoming a symbol of comfort food by the 20th century. Today, mac and cheese is enjoyed globally, with variations reflecting diverse cultures and tastes.

Tini’s Mac and Cheese recipe honors this legacy by blending tradition with a modern twist, resulting in a dish that’s as timeless as it is delicious.

How to Make Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Making this dish is simple yet rewarding. The key lies in balancing the creamy sauce with the crispy topping while choosing the right pasta to hold all that cheesy goodness.

Ingredients for Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe

Main Ingredients

16 oz (450g) elbow macaroni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1 cup sautéed mushrooms or spinach
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

Directions

1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente—this ensures the pasta holds its shape after baking.
Strain the pasta, then briefly rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process, and set it aside.

2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Heat butter in a large saucepan over medium flame until melted.
Add the flour and whisk steadily for 1–2 minutes to create a smooth and lump-free roux.
Slowly add the milk and cream while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.

3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
Distribute the topping evenly across the mac and cheese for a uniform crust.

5: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the dish for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
Let the mac and cheese cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

As a Main Dish: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
As a Side Dish: Serve alongside barbecue ribs, fried chicken, or baked salmon.
For gatherings: serve it in a decorative casserole dish garnished with fresh parsley to create an eye-catching table centerpiece.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate: leftovers by placing them in an airtight container, where they can be kept fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations of Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Gourmet Touch: Add a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious twist.
Veggie Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli, roasted bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Protein Additions: Stir in cooked chicken, crumbled sausage, or lobster for a hearty meal.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with cornstarch for the roux.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different pasta shapes?
A: Pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or penne are excellent choices for capturing the rich cheese sauce.

Q: What can I do to keep the sauce from curdling?
A: Use room-temperature milk and avoid overheating the sauce. Stir gently while adding the cheese.

Q:Can this dish be made ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the dish without the topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping and bake just before serving.

Conclusion

Tini’s Mac and Cheese recipe is a timeless classic that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, golden topping. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Its adaptability and simplicity in preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion.

For more tips and inspiration, check out this expert guide to perfecting mac and cheese by King Arthur Baking.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!