Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Tini's Mac and Cheese—a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Made with a blend of mozzarella, Colby Jack, and cheddar cheeses, this homemade recipe is rich, velvety, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, Tini's Mac and Cheese is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Keyword: Cheesy Pasta Dish, Comfort Food, Creamy Mac and Cheese, Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe, Homemade Mac and Cheese, Tini's Mac and Cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutesminutes
Cook Time: 20 minutesminutes
Total Time: 30 minutesminutes
Servings: 6servings
Ingredients
1poundcavatappi pastacooked al dente
16ouncesmozzarella cheesegrated
16ouncesColby Jack cheesegrated
8ouncescheddar cheesegrated
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
1/2teaspoonsalt
1/2teaspoonblack pepper
3tablespoonsbutter
3tablespoonsflour
1can (12 ounces)evaporated milk
2cupsheavy cream
1tablespoonDijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the flour and cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes paste-like.
Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk and heavy cream until the sauce thickens. Stir in the Dijon mustard.
Add the shredded mozzarella, Colby Jack, and cheddar cheeses to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for 2-3 minutes.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.