Ultimate Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving comfort, you simply have to try Tini’s Mac and Cheese—a pillowy, swoon-worthy bake that blends three cheeses and velvety sauce over irresistible cavatappi pasta. This isn’t just a cheesy casserole; it’s family magic, made for sharing (or hoarding just for yourself!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Tini’s Mac and Cheese is how a few thoughtfully chosen staples come together to create pure bliss in a casserole dish. Each ingredient brings something special—texture, flavor, or that irresistible color that makes this dish the star of any table.

• Mozzarella Cheese (1 pound): Shred your own from a deli block for better melt, great texture, and bigger savings.
• Colby Jack Cheese (1 pound): Brings creamy, mild flavor and gorgeous color to the cheese blend.
• Sharp Cheddar (8 ounces): Bold and tangy, yellow cheddar gives Tini’s Mac and Cheese its classic bite and golden hue.
• Cavatappi Pasta (1 pound): These twisty noodles cling to sauce and don’t get lost under layers of melty cheese.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses every bite with gentle warmth and savory depth.
• Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Smoky, subtle heat that makes flavors pop and adds a rich, red glow.
• Coarse Salt (1 teaspoon): Heightens every cheesy and creamy note—don’t skip!
• Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Just enough to bring balance and a mild kick.
• Salted Butter (3 tablespoons): Builds a glossy roux that underpins the entire sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce, creating that signature velvetiness.
• Evaporated Milk (1 12 oz. can): Adds body and a richer mouthfeel than regular milk.
• Heavy Cream (2 cups): The ticket to ultimate indulgence—this is the secret to a sauce that won’t dry out.
• Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon): An unexpected twang that cuts through the richness without overpowering.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley: For that final flourish of color and freshness.

Variations

There’s no rule that says you have to make Tini’s Mac and Cheese exactly the same way every time! Feel free to get creative—this recipe was made to flex with your fridge and your cravings.

• Swap the Cheese: Try pepper jack, Gruyère, or even smoked gouda for unique flavor spins and extra ooey-gooeyness.
• Meaty Mix-In: Stir in cooked bacon, pulled chicken, or crumbled sausage for a hearty upgrade.
• Veggie Power: Fold in chopped spinach, roasted peppers, or blanched broccoli for more color and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and flour to please everyone at the table.

How to Make Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Prep the Cheeses

Start by shredding all three cheeses—mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar. Using blocks makes a world of difference, so grab your box grater and get going! Once shredded, mix the cheeses together and split them into two piles (one for melting into your sauce, one for layering later).

Step 2: Boil the Cavatappi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your cavatappi until just al dente. Drain and set aside—the pasta will finish softening in the oven and soak up all the glorious cheesy sauce.

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

While the pasta cooks, stir together your garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small dish. This little step ensures an even burst of flavor from the very first bite.

Step 4: Make the Roux

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the salted butter. Sprinkle in half of your seasoning mix, then whisk in the flour, stirring constantly until the roux bubbles but doesn’t brown—about 1–2 minutes. This foundation keeps the sauce luxuriously smooth.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

Slowly add the evaporated milk, whisking until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Then pour in the heavy cream, the rest of the seasonings, and Dijon mustard. Keep whisking until the sauce is thick and glossy. Gradually add half the shredded cheese, stirring until it’s all perfectly melted in.

Step 6: Combine & Layer

Fold the cavatappi into your dreamy cheese sauce, making sure every twist is coated. Spoon half into a 9×13 inch baking dish, sprinkle with a third of the reserved cheese, then layer on the rest of the pasta. Finish with more cheese on top!

Step 7: Bake and Broil

Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes—just enough to achieve that bubbling, golden-brown crust that makes Tini’s Mac and Cheese impossible to resist. Garnish with chopped parsley and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

The prettiest (and tastiest) finish? A vibrant sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley! If you’re feeling extra, try a dusting of smoked paprika, or some toasted buttery breadcrumbs for irresistible crunch on top of your Tini’s Mac and Cheese.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy mac and cheese with something crisp and tangy, like a simple arugula salad or roasted broccoli. Or, turn it into the centerpiece alongside fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or classic meatloaf for the ultimate comfort food feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Tini’s Mac and Cheese in individual ramekins for a dinner party wow-factor, or pile it high in a big, family-style casserole to invite that “just one more scoop” feeling. For potlucks, keep it warm in a slow cooker so every guest gets it at peak ooziness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers (if you miraculously have any) keep beautifully! Cover tightly and store Tini’s Mac and Cheese in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—perfect for last-minute lunches or a cozy midnight snack.

Freezing

Tini’s Mac and Cheese can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently to reclaim maximum creaminess.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed. Individual servings can be microwaved in short bursts—just stir often to distribute the heat and keep that dreamy texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for cozy nostalgia and serious cheese pulls, make Tini’s Mac and Cheese part of your next meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, one bite and you’ll understand why this is everyone’s favorite comfort food—don’t be surprised if people beg for seconds (and the recipe)!

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