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A plate of Tini’s Mac and Cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping and fresh herbs.

Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food That’s Hard to Beat

5 from 1 reviews

Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, melted cheese with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. This easy-to-make dish is rich in flavor, featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all enveloped in a smooth, velvety sauce. Topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, it’s the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, Tini’s Mac and Cheese is sure to satisfy every craving. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe brings the perfect combination of indulgence and comfort right to your table.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4-6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 4 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional, but adds a nice tang)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work well for added crunch)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:
    Boil elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  • Make the Roux:
    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until golden.

  • Add Milk:
    Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

  • Incorporate Cheese:
    Stir in grated cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.

  • Combine Pasta and Sauce:
    Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well-coated.

  • Top with Breadcrumbs (Optional):
    Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  • Serve and Enjoy:
    Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade mac and cheese!

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, feel free to add a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese like gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and don’t forget to top with crispy breadcrumbs for the perfect crunchy finish!

These values are approximate and can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Feel free to adjust depending on your preferred ingredients or substitutions!

  • Author: Anna Gomez
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
  • Method: Stovetop, Baking (optional)
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: per serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Tini’s Mac and Cheese, mac and cheese recipe, creamy mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, comfort food recipe