Chef Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe: An Easy Gourmet Take on Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the timeless appeal of mac and cheese. But this isn’t just any recipe—it’s Chef Tini‘s mac and cheese recipe, a refined, gourmet twist on a beloved classic. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings, this dish is the definition of creamy, cheesy perfection. Whether you’re a mac and cheese connoisseur or trying it for the first time, Tini mac and cheese recipe will redefine your expectations.

Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

400

kcal

Experience comfort food at its finest with Chef Tini’s signature mac and cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s the ultimate indulgence!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese
cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Directions

Cook the Pasta:
Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and thickened.
Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Combine:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
Prepare for Baking:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
Add the Topping:
In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and smoked paprika. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake:
Bake for 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy Chef Tini’s signature mac and cheese recipe!

Notes

For a sharper flavor, increase the amount of Gruyère or substitute with fontina.
Whole milk and heavy cream create the creamiest sauce, but substitutions like 2% milk or evaporated milk can work in a pinch.
Add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle depth of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe

Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor.
Season the Sauce Well: The cheese sauce should be well-seasoned before adding the pasta.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the macaroni, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Toast Breadcrumbs First: Lightly toast the breadcrumbs for extra crunch before adding to the dish.
Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Recipe Variants

Spicy Tini Mac and Cheese: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Meat Lover’s Edition: Stir in crispy bacon bits, shredded chicken, or cooked sausage.
Vegetarian Twist: Include roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Seafood Deluxe: Add cooked lobster, shrimp, or crab for an indulgent treat.

FAQ

Can I make Chef Tini’s mac and cheese recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the best results.

What cheese substitutes work best?

If you can’t find Gruyère, try fontina or Swiss cheese. For cheddar, opt for any sharp cheese you enjoy.

Can I skip the breadcrumb topping?

Yes, but the crispy topping adds a delightful texture. You can also use crushed crackers or potato chips as alternatives.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

If you loved Chef Tini’s mac and cheese recipe, don’t miss our Banana Bread Recipe with Cake Mix—a simple yet delicious dessert to pair with your meal!

This Tini mac and cheese recipe is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. With its creamy cheese sauce and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an indulgent comfort food recipe, Tini’s mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and you’ll never look at mac and cheese the same way again!