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tinis mac and cheese
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Tinis Mac and Cheese Recipe That Will Change Your Life​

Discoverthe ultimate Tinis Mac and Cheese recipe for a creamy, cheesy dish that’sperfect for any occasion. Easy, customizable, and absolutely delicious!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish, Comfort Food
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Tinis Mac and Cheese
  • To achieve the perfect balance of creamy cheesy goodness, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this homemade mac and cheese from scratch:
For the Pasta:
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni – Classic and sturdy but feel free to swap with cavatappi or shell pasta for extra sauce-hugging power.
For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded – Provides that bold, classic flavor.
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese grated – Adds a rich, salty depth to the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Helps create a silky smooth texture.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce perfectly.
  • 2 cups whole milk – Ensures a rich and creamy consistency.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – Adds extra decadence to the cheese sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the cheesy flavor with a subtle tang.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Brings a mild savory kick.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing the flavors.
For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy golden topping.
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter – Helps toast the breadcrumbs to perfection.
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese – Gives the topping an extra cheesy crunch.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
  • Cheese Variations: Try swapping some cheddar for gruyère smoked gouda, or Monterey Jack for a gourmet twist.
  • Milk Alternatives: Prefer a lighter version? Use 2% milk instead of whole milk and cream.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this dish completely gluten-free.

Method
 

How to Make Tinis Mac and Cheese
  1. Making homemade mac and cheese is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to achieve a creamy, cheesy masterpiece every time.
Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes).
  3. Drain the pasta and set it aside. For extra creaminess, toss it with a teaspoon of butter to prevent sticking.
Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
  3. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth mixture.
  4. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Melt the Cheese
  1. Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually add the cheddar and parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated in the rich, creamy goodness.
Optional – Make It Baked Mac and Cheese
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
  3. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parmesan cheese, then sprinkle over the top.
  4. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Serve and Enjoy!
  1. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 20g