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Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Tini’s Mac and Cheese: Creamy Comfort Food Delight!

Discover Tini’s Mac and Cheese, a creamy comfort food that combines a trio of luscious cheeses and a playful dash of spices for a delightful experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese opt for fresh deli block variety for easier shredding
  • 8 oz Colby Jack Cheese fresh shredding recommended
  • 8 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese choosing yellow cheddar enhances the vibrant color
  • 4 tbsp Salted Butter unsalted butter can be used with additional salt
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour whole wheat flour serves as a great substitute
  • 12 oz Evaporated Milk contributes a creamier sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream lower-fat alternatives can reduce creaminess
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard mustard powder is a suitable replacement if needed
For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Cavatappi Pasta elbow macaroni or rotini makes for acceptable substitutes
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder you can use fresh minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika regular paprika can be used if preferred
  • 1 tbsp Coarse Salt adjust according to the saltiness of the cheese
  • 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper freshly ground is preferable
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Chopped Parsley sprinkle it on before serving for a pop of color

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step‑By‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shred the mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses, setting aside half for the topping.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the cavatappi pasta. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until al dente.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and ground black pepper.
  4. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Add half of the spice mix and stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour.
  5. Gradually whisk in 12 ounces of evaporated milk, followed by 1 cup of heavy cream until the mixture thickens.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in half of your shredded mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Add the cooked cavatappi pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
  8. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cheesy pasta mixture, sprinkle a third of the remaining cheese, then layer with the rest of the pasta.
  9. Finally, finish with the remaining cheese on top and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 500mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. Ensure cavatappi remains al dente, and adjust baking time based on your oven's heat distribution.

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