Tini’s Mac and Cheese Recipe: Step By Step Guide

Tini’s Ultimate Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a creamy, decadent mac and cheese that’s rich in flavor and utterly comforting, Tini’s Mac and Cheese is the answer. This recipe brings a gourmet twist to the classic dish, combining multiple cheeses, a velvety sauce, and a golden breadcrumb topping. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you need a little comfort food magic!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Cheese Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Continue to cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

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

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with additional parsley, if desired, and enjoy Tini’s Mac and Cheese while it’s warm and gooey.

Tips for Success

Cheese Selection: For the best flavor, use a mix of high-quality cheeses. Gruyère adds a nutty richness, while Parmesan gives a salty kick.
Crispier Topping: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for an extra crispy crust.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

Why Tini’s Mac and Cheese Stands Out

This isn’t your average mac and cheese—it’s a luxurious, creamy, and cheesy dish with a crunchy topping that adds just the right texture. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, Tini’s Mac and Cheese will always steal the show!