Go Back
–+ servings
Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Fix

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese is a customizable and creamy dish that dazzles at family dinners and potlucks.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Cavatappi Pasta Feel free to swap with elbow macaroni or fusilli if desired.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Olive oil is a great dairy-free alternative.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be used if necessary.
  • 12 ounces Evaporated Milk Whole milk can also be used.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Light cream can be used for fewer calories.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Divided; consider mixing with gouda or provolone for a twist.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Additional Cheddar Cheese Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Casserole Dish
  • skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 casserole dish with butter.
  2. Cook cavatappi pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium-low heat and stir in half of the seasoning mix for aromatic flavor.
  4. Whisk in all-purpose flour, cooking for about 1-2 minutes, then gradually stir in evaporated milk and heavy cream until thickened.
  5. Add remaining seasonings and mustard, fold in half of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated.
  7. Layer half the macaroni in the greased dish, sprinkle with half the remaining cheese, repeat the layers.
  8. Bake for about 30 minutes, then broil for 3-4 minutes for a crispy top.
  9. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, taste the cheese sauce before combining it with the pasta to adjust the flavors. Storage instructions include refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freezing for up to 3 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!