Name: Tini’s Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional); ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); 1 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for topping)

Tini’s Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! With a creamy, velvety cheese sauce and a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this mac and cheese is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or just a simple craving for something rich and cheesy, this dish will hit the spot. And with the optional crispy breadcrumb topping, it’s a twist on the classic that elevates the dish even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and versatile this mac and cheese recipe is. The creamy cheese sauce, made with a combination of milk, heavy cream, and three kinds of cheese, creates a rich and indulgent dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, while the garlic and onion powder give it an extra layer of flavor. Whether I choose to serve it straight from the stove or bake it with a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping, this mac and cheese never disappoints. It’s the perfect dish to bring to a gathering or simply enjoy at home with family.

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice

3 tbsp unsalted butter

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

1 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to form a roux.

Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings if needed.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

Optional Topping and Bake:

If you prefer a baked mac and cheese, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the edges are bubbling.

Serve:

Serve the mac and cheese immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.

Bacon Mac and Cheese: Fry up some bacon, crumble it, and mix it into the cheese sauce for a smoky, savory twist.

Vegetarian Mac and Cheese: Load up your mac and cheese with veggies like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Vegan Mac and Cheese: Use dairy-free butter, non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and a plant-based cheese substitute to make this recipe vegan.

Storage/Reheating

To store, place any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop with a splash of milk, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it from drying out. For an extra crispy topping, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking.

Related Recipes:

The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, or shells work just as well as elbow macaroni.

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese, including the cheese sauce, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven.

Is there a way to make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, simply cook it for a bit longer before adding the cheese, or add a little extra flour to the roux.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese! After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it from frozen or let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Definitely! You can experiment with different cheese combinations. Gruyère, gouda, or Monterey Jack are great alternatives to the cheddar and mozzarella in this recipe.

Conclusion

Tini’s Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a blend of rich cheeses for the perfect dish. Whether you bake it with a crunchy breadcrumb topping or serve it straight from the stove, it’s sure to be a hit at any table. I love how easy it is to make and how versatile it can be, making it perfect for any occasion.

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