TINI'S VIRAL TIKTOK MAC AND CHEESE RECIPE
This recipe is inspired by Tini's viral TikTok mac and cheese, known for its creamy, cheesy texture and relatively simple preparation. It's a baked mac and cheese that uses a combination of cheeses and a roux-based sauce for ultimate richness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg optional, but adds a nice touch
- 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- 4 ounces Gruyere cheese shredded (or another good melting cheese like fontina)
- Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven and cook pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to package directions, about 2-3 minutes less than al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (this is the roux).
- Add milk and seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Reduce heat to low.
- Add cheese: Add all of the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Gruyere cheese to the sauce. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Add Parmesan topping (optional): Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top, if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
- Let rest: Let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve.
Notes
- Cheese: Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. For best results, shred your own cheese. You can adjust the types of cheese to your preference, but make sure they are good melting cheeses.
- Milk: Whole milk will give the sauce the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
- Roux: Cooking the roux properly is important for preventing a lumpy sauce.
- Baking Time: Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the mac and cheese and remove it when the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
- Lobster Mac and Cheese: Add cooked lobster meat to the mac and cheese.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Cook some bacon until crispy, crumble it, and add it to the mac and cheese or use it as a topping.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Add some cooked vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or peas, to the mac and cheese.