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Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese

Tini's Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy Comfort for All Ages

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 box Cavatappi Pasta or elbow macaroni or shells
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter or margarine for a dairy-free option
  • 3 tablespoons Flour or gluten-free flour
  • 12 ounces Evaporated Milk or whole/almond milk
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or half-and-half for a lower-calorie version
  • 2 cups Mixed Cheeses (mozzarella, cheddar) Experiment with gouda or provolone
For Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Seasoning Mix (smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper) Adjust spices to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard or omit if allergic

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Casserole dish
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 casserole dish.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add cavatappi pasta, and cook until al dente (7–9 minutes). Drain.
  3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat and stir in half of the seasoning mix.
  4. Add flour to the skillet and whisk to combine; cook for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Slowly whisk in evaporated milk and heavy cream, bringing to a gentle boil.
  6. Add remaining seasoning mix and Dijon mustard to the mixture; simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Gradually add half of the mixed cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
  8. Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
  9. Layer half of the macaroni mixture in the greased casserole dish, sprinkle with cheese, then add remaining macaroni and top with cheese.
  10. Bake for 30 minutes, then broil for an additional 3–4 minutes for a crispy topping.
  11. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For an extra crispy topping, keep an eye on the dish while broiling to avoid burning.

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