Tinie’s Mac and Cheese Recipe

Why This Mac and Cheese Will Change the Way You Cook

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. But Tinie’s Mac and Cheese isn’t just any ordinary recipe; it’s a rich, flavorful masterpiece that brings a perfect balance of gooey cheese, silky sauce, and tender pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step of making Tinie’s Mac and Cheese, from choosing the best ingredients to achieving that perfect, creamy consistency. Plus, we’ll explore variations, cooking tips, and ways to customize your dish for any occasion.

Now, let’s dive into what makes Tinie’s Mac and Cheese so special!

What Makes Tinie’s Mac and Cheese Unique?

Tinie’s Mac and Cheese isn’t your average boxed macaroni dinner—it’s a rich, homemade dish with a secret blend of cheeses and seasonings that elevate it to the next level. What makes this recipe stand out?

1. The Perfect Cheese Blend

Many recipes rely solely on cheddar, but Tinie’s version combines multiple cheeses to create a depth of flavor and creaminess you won’t forget. The mix of sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, and creamy Monterey Jack ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a slightly smoky, nutty taste.

2. A Velvety, Creamy Sauce

Forget grainy or clumpy cheese sauce! Tinie’s method involves making a silky béchamel base (a classic French-style white sauce) that blends perfectly with the cheese, creating a buttery and luscious coating for every noodle.

3. The Secret Ingredient

A dash of mustard powder and a hint of hot sauce may sound unexpected, but these add a subtle tang and depth that balances the richness of the cheese. Plus, a little bit of evaporated milk instead of regular milk keeps the sauce extra creamy without making it too heavy.

4. The Perfect Pasta Choice

While elbow macaroni is traditional, Tinie’s Mac and Cheese swaps it for cavatappi (or another pasta with ridges) to hold onto more cheese sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

5. Oven-Baked vs. Stovetop Perfection

This recipe gives you two versions:

• A quick stovetop mac and cheese for creamy indulgence in minutes.
• A baked mac and cheese option with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping for a satisfying crunch.

This dish is the ultimate balance of creamy, cheesy, and comforting—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients Needed for Tinie’s Mac and Cheese

Before we start cooking, let’s go over everything you’ll need. The right ingredients make all the difference in achieving that rich, creamy, and flavorful mac and cheese.

1. Essential Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta (or elbow macaroni, if preferred)
• Water and salt (for boiling)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk (for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds subtle tang)
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder (boosts depth of flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional) (for a mild kick)

Cheese Blend:

A combination of three types of cheese ensures the perfect melt and flavor:

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated (for depth of flavor)

💡 Pro Tip: Always shred your cheese fresh! Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

2. Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

If you love a little twist on classic mac and cheese, consider adding:

• 1 cup cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
• ½ cup caramelized onions
• 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken, If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, you can easily incorporate it into your mac and cheese for a protein-packed twist. Check out these Creative and Delicious Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes for more ways to use your leftovers!
• ½ cup jalapeños, chopped (for a spicy kick)

3. For the Crispy Topping (If Baking)

For those who love a golden, crunchy crust on their mac and cheese:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Tinie’s Mac and Cheese

Now that we have all our ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making Tinie’s ultra-creamy mac and cheese from scratch. You can choose between the stovetop version for a quick and creamy dish or the baked version for a crispy, golden topping.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add 1 pound of cavatappi pasta (or elbow macaroni). Cook 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (about 6–7 minutes) for a firm texture that holds up in the sauce.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside. Toss with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.

💡 Pro Tip: Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from getting mushy when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Melt butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Make a roux: Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and smooth. This helps thicken the sauce.
3. Add the liquids: Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Season the sauce: Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
5. Melt the cheese: Lower the heat to low and gradually stir in the cheese blend:
   • 2 cups sharp cheddar
   • 1 cup smoked gouda
   • 1 cup Monterey Jack
   • ½ cup Parmesan
6. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth. If you like a little kick, add ½ teaspoon of hot sauce.

💡 Pro Tip: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it up.

Step 3: Combine Pasta & Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce.
2. Stir gently until every piece is coated in the rich, velvety sauce.

At this point, you can serve immediately for a creamy stovetop mac and cheese. OR if you love a crispy, golden crust, move on to the baking step below.

Step 4 (Optional): Bake for a Crispy Crust

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer mac and cheese to a buttered baking dish.
3. Make the topping: Mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese.
4. Sprinkle topping evenly over the mac and cheese. For a unique twist on your breadcrumb topping, consider using ideas from this Perfect Brookie Recipe. The crunchy, buttery topping from this dessert might inspire a delicious variation for your baked mac and cheese!
5. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

💡 Pro Tip: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crunch!

How to Make the Creamiest Cheese Sauce

A silky, lump-free cheese sauce is the secret to truly luxurious mac and cheese. Here’s how to make sure your sauce turns out perfectly creamy every time—without graininess, curdling, or clumping.

1. Use a Proper Cheese Blend

Not all cheeses melt the same way. For the smoothest texture, use a combination of:
Sharp Cheddar – Classic mac and cheese flavor, but can be grainy alone.
Smoked Gouda – Adds creaminess and a subtle smoky taste.
Monterey Jack – Smooth, mild, and perfect for melting.
Parmesan – Enhances flavor but should be finely grated to avoid clumps.

💡 Avoid pre-shredded cheese because it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always grate your own cheese for the best results!

2. Start with a Smooth Roux

A roux (flour + butter mixture) is the foundation of a creamy sauce. If done incorrectly, it can lead to a gritty or lumpy texture.

🔹 Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
🔹 Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. It should look smooth and slightly golden.
🔹 Slowly add warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

💡 Pro Tip: Always cook the roux for at least a minute to remove any raw flour taste!

3. Heat Slowly & Stir Constantly

Never rush your cheese sauce! If the heat is too high, the cheese can separate and turn grainy.

🔹 Keep the stove on low to medium heat while adding cheese.
🔹 Stir constantly to help it melt evenly.

💡 DO NOT let the sauce boil! High heat causes cheese to curdle and become greasy.

4. Add Cheese in Batches

Instead of dumping all the cheese in at once, add it gradually, stirring between each addition. This prevents clumping and ensures even melting.

💡 Pro Tip: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it up.

5. Use Evaporated Milk for Extra Creaminess

Evaporated milk has less water content than regular milk, making the sauce thicker and silkier. This little trick helps achieve restaurant-style mac and cheese without making it too heavy.

6. Add a Secret Ingredient for Extra Flavor

A little mustard powder, Dijon mustard, and a splash of hot sauce boost the cheese sauce’s depth of flavor without making it taste spicy. These ingredients enhance the tanginess and sharpness of the cheese!

Mustard Powder: Adds a mild tang that enhances the cheese flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Gives the sauce a subtle richness.
Hot Sauce (Optional): Helps balance out the creaminess with a slight kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using low-fat milk – Stick with whole milk, heavy cream, or evaporated milk for the best texture.
Boiling the sauce – Always keep it at a gentle simmer to avoid grainy cheese.
Skipping the roux – A roux helps thicken the sauce and prevents it from becoming watery.
Using the wrong cheese – Avoid cheeses that don’t melt well, like feta or goat cheese.

Baking vs. Stovetop: Which One is Better?

One of the biggest questions when making mac and cheese is whether to keep it creamy on the stovetop or go for that golden, crispy baked version. Both methods have their own advantages, so let’s break it down!

1. Stovetop Mac and Cheese: Ultra Creamy & Quick

If you love rich, gooey mac and cheese that’s super creamy, then the stovetop version is the way to go!

✅ Pros:
Fast & easy – Ready in 15-20 minutes.
Creamier texture – The cheese sauce stays smooth and velvety.
No oven needed – Perfect for a quick meal.
Easier to adjust consistency – You can add more milk or cheese as needed.

❌ Cons:

• Lacks a crispy topping.
• Can thicken as it cools (but you can fix this by adding a splash of milk).

💡 Best for: Weeknight dinners, kids, and those who love extra creamy mac and cheese.

2. Baked Mac and Cheese: Crispy & Golden

If you prefer a cheesy casserole-style mac and cheese with a buttery, crunchy topping, baking is the way to go!

✅ Pros:
Beautiful golden crust – Thanks to the crispy breadcrumb topping.
Cheese gets extra melty & bubbly – A restaurant-style finish.
Great for gatherings – Stays warm longer and serves more people.

❌ Cons:

• Takes longer (30-40 minutes).
• Can be less creamy than the stovetop version.
• Needs more cheese sauce to prevent dryness.

💡 Best for: Holidays, potlucks, and when you want a hearty, casserole-style dish.

Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on what you’re craving!

• If you want quick and creamy mac and cheese, go stovetop.
• If you love a crispy top and don’t mind extra time, bake it.
• Can’t decide? Do both! Serve half stovetop and bake the rest for variety.

💡 Pro Tip: If baking, don’t overbake! Keep it in the oven just long enough to melt the cheese and crisp up the topping—about 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

FAQs: Tinie’s Mac and Cheese

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about making the perfect mac and cheese!

1. How do I keep my mac and cheese from becoming grainy?

Grainy cheese sauce usually happens when the heat is too high, causing the cheese to separate. To prevent this:
Use low heat when adding cheese – never boil the sauce.
Shred your own cheese – pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Add cheese gradually, stirring constantly for a smooth consistency.

2. What’s the best pasta for mac and cheese?

Cavatappi, elbow macaroni, and shell pasta are great choices because they hold onto sauce well. Avoid thin or delicate pastas that can become mushy.

3. Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! To keep it creamy:
✔ Stovetop version: Store the cheese sauce separately and reheat with a little milk before serving.
✔ Baked version: Assemble everything but don’t bake until you’re ready to serve. If already baked, cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

4. How do I reheat mac and cheese without drying it out?

Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating on low heat, stirring constantly.
Microwave: Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring in between, with a little milk added.
Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to prevent drying. If you’re storing leftover mac and cheese, you might also want to check out these expert Rotisserie Chicken Storage Tips for keeping your food fresh and safe for longer.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap:
✔ Regular pasta → Gluten-free pasta
✔ Flour in the roux → Cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend

6. What are some fun mix-ins for mac and cheese?

You can customize your mac and cheese with:
Protein: Bacon, shredded chicken, or lobster
Veggies: Roasted broccoli, caramelized onions, or mushrooms
Spices: Cayenne, smoked paprika, or truffle oil for extra flavor

Your Mac and Cheese Journey Starts Here

Tinie’s Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that can be made stovetop or baked, customized to your liking, and enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees a rich, flavorful, and unforgettable meal.