If you've been scrolling through TikTok, chances are you’ve seen the viral Tini’s mac and cheese recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crust that makes it irresistible. This recipe has earned its fame for good reason. It might be the best mac and cheese I've ever had!
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What Is Tini's Mac and Cheese?
I came across this recipe from my cousin, who’s always on top of TikTok food trends. The video was from Tini who is a TikTok food creator, and she shared her mac and cheese recipe right before Thanksgiving. It went crazy viral with over 90 million views so far, and it looked incredible in the video, so I had to try to recreate it! I even put my own spin on the viral recipe, and I think it made it even more delicious.
Tini's mac n cheese has everything you'd want in homemade mac and cheese; it's rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. The blend of mozzarella, Colby jack, and sharp cheddar creates the perfect balance of creaminess and bold cheese flavor. Plus, the crispy top layer adds a texture that makes it unforgettable.
Ingredients For Tini's Mac and Cheese
This recipe is made with common pantry ingredients, and you can really use any shredded cheese you have in your fridge. The more cheeses the better!
Here's what you need for this recipe:
- 1 lb corkscrew noodles
- 1 lb mozzarella, shredded
- 1 lb Colby jack, shredded
- ½ lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoon flour
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh chives (optional)
My Expert Tips For Perfect Mac n Cheese
Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent a smooth melt. Shredding your own makes a huge difference in creaminess. I suggest you get a cheese block from the deli to shred.
Don't Skip the Broil: Those extra 2 minutes under the broiler create a crispy, golden crust that takes this mac and cheese to the next level.
Use a Deep Baking Dish: This ensures the layers cook evenly and gives you more cheesy goodness in every bite.
Customize the Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or Parmesan for a unique twist. Use a few different cheese if you can!
How to Make Tini's Viral Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Prepare the Cheese
Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Shred all the cheeses and mix them in a bowl, setting aside half for the topping.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Stir in flour and half the seasoning to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk, ensuring no lumps.
Add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and remaining seasoning. Cook until the sauce thickens, then stir in half of the shredded cheese until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Layer
Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated. Grease a baking dish and layer half the pasta mixture, topping it with half of the remaining cheese.
Add the rest of the pasta and finish with the remaining cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake and Broil
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a crispy golden crust, broil for an additional 2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent the top from burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chives if desired, and serve warm. Now finally, enjoy this TikTok-inspired mac and cheese!
FAQ's About This Tini Mac And Cheese Recipe
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Elbow macaroni, penne, or shells work just as well. Just ensure it’s a sturdy pasta to hold the cheese sauce.
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve and add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to restorevthe creaminess.
Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Thaw the mac n cheese in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven, covered with foil, at 350F until warmed through.
Can I add toppings?
Yes! Crispy bacon bits, breadcrumbs, or extra cheese make excellent toppings for added texture and flavor.
More Viral TikTok Recipes To Try Next
- Kylie Jenner ramen
- Gigi Hadid pasta
- Cinnamon rolls with heavy cream
- Oreo mug cake
- Donna Kelce's cookies
- Boursin pasta
Tini's Mac And Cheese (Viral TikTok Recipe)
If you've been scrolling through TikTok, chances are you’ve seen the viral Tini’s mac and cheese recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crust that makes it irresistible. This recipe has earned its fame for good reason. It might be the best mac and cheese I've ever had!
Ingredients
- 1lb Cork screw noodles
- 1lb mozzarella
- 1lb Colby jack
- ½ lb sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoon flour
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Shred all the cheese and mix it in a bowl, then divide the mixture into two portions. In a small bowl, prepare the seasoning by combining salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat to start the roux. Once the butter is melted, stir in half of the seasoning, followed by the flour. Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk, stirring vigorously to eliminate any lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and begins to boil.
- Add the heavy cream and the remaining seasoning, continuing to stir. Stir in Dijon mustard and cook until the sauce thickens further.
- Slowly add the shredded cheese to the roux, a little at a time, stirring until fully melted. Once the cheese is incorporated, mix in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Grease a baking dish and pour in half of the pasta mixture. Layer it with half of the remaining shredded cheese, then add the rest of the pasta. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake the dish in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is fully melted. For a crispy, golden crust, broil for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped chives, and serve warm.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 cupAmount Per Serving: Calories: 620Total Fat: 43gSaturated Fat: 24gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 126mgSodium: 812mgCarbohydrates: 32gFiber: 2gSugar: 3gProtein: 30g
Jenny
My kids LOVED this mac and cheese! They never like homemade mac and cheese but told me this was better than their favorite box. Thanks!!