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)

Description

Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish made with a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Topped with optional crispy breadcrumbs, it’s the ultimate comfort food! Perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you crave something rich and cheesy.

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)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Boil salted water and cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, simmering until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Lower heat and stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Optional Topping and Bake:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch dish. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake for 20 minutes, until the topping is golden and edges are bubbling.
Serve:
Serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

For a smoky twist, add crumbled bacon.

For a vegetarian option, add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

To make it vegan, substitute with dairy-free ingredients.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
Method: Stovetop and Baking (optional)
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 servings
Calories: 420 kcal per serving