The Mac & Cheese that broke the internet | Tini’s Mac & Cheese

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Lower calorie option or more budget-friendly.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole grain pasta

💰Cheaper: any pasta shape

More nutritious or versatile.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt.

Use a KitchenAid to grate sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Colby Jack cheese.

Cook cavatappi pasta for two minutes short of al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

Heat a pan on medium heat and melt down butter.

Add flour to the melted butter and cook for about four minutes to remove the flour taste.

Combine half of the seasonings (salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper) and reserve the rest to bloom the taste.

Add evaporated milk a little at a time, whisking to remove lumps until smooth.

Slowly add heavy cream using the same technique, ensuring a smooth consistency.

Add the remaining seasonings and Dijon mustard to the sauce.

Turn the heat to low and slowly add half of the reserved shredded cheese, blending fully before adding more.

Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta, ensuring the sauce gets inside the cavatappi noodles.

In a large baking dish, add half of the pasta and top with half of the remaining cheese.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining pasta and cheese.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes.

Broil for three minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens