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Tinis Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Reasons Why Tinis Mac and Cheese Recipe is the Ultimate Comfort Dish

Tinis Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy cavatappi pasta baked in a decadent three-cheese sauce, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh parsley. This gourmet twist on a classic dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or indulgent nights in.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • Pasta: 16 oz cavatappi pasta
  • Cheese Sauce:
    • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
    • 2 cups shredded Colby Jack
    • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
  • Liquid Base:
    • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
    • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Seasonings:
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Topping:
    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar for topping
  • Garnish:
    • 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pasta: Boil the cavatappi pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
    • In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
    • Whisk in 4 tbsp flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
    • Slowly whisk in evaporated milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened.
    • Gradually add mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth.
    • Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine and Bake:
    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
    • Sprinkle breadcrumbs and cheddar on top.
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.
  • For added flavor, mix crispy bacon or caramelized onions into the pasta.
  • To make gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and replace the roux with a cornstarch slurry.
  • Author: MALAK
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: Tinis Mac and Cheese, creamy mac and cheese, three-cheese pasta, baked mac and cheese, comfort food recipe, gourmet mac and cheese