If you’re anything like me, you have a soft spot for pasta dishes that taste like a warm hug. The Chef Tini mac and cheese recipe is my go-to when I want comfort food that’s both playful and deeply satisfying. It uses ditalini or another “mini” pasta, which gives every bite the perfect balance of creamy sauce and tender chew. And yes, the keyword here is creamy.
I first fell in love with this version while experimenting with what to make for a last-minute dinner party. I had odds and ends in the fridge, a bag of ditalini pasta, and a serious craving for cheese. The result? A stovetop marvel that guests kept asking for again and again.
This tini mac and cheese recipe fits into just about any situation: a kid-approved dinner, a cozy solo night, or a potluck side dish that disappears fast. It’s also quick, easy, and totally customizable. You can dress it up or keep it old-school. Either way, it hits the spot every time.
Table of contents
Why This Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe Is So Good
Let’s talk about what makes this tini mac and cheese recipe stand out from the rest. First, the pasta. Using a smaller pasta shape like ditalini allows the creamy cheese sauce to seep into every crevice, creating a luscious, evenly coated bite that holds up well whether you’re serving it straight from the pot or baking it with a crispy top.
Second, the sauce. I use a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Havarti for a rich, silky texture that’s anything but grainy. The roux-based béchamel comes together quickly and doesn’t clump, giving you that ultra-smooth finish that coats every single noodle.
Customization is where the tini mac and cheese recipe shines. Want to go gluten-free? Swap in your favorite GF pasta and flour. Craving a bit more nutrition? Stir in some pureed butternut squash or a handful of baby spinach. Need a little heat? A pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño will do the trick.
This dish is a blank canvas that still manages to be complete on its own. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing foodie friends, this recipe delivers every single time, in flavor, texture, and that cozy, comforting feeling that only mac and cheese can bring.
Recipe Card
Tini Mac and Cheese Recipe
6
servings15
minutes25
minutes400
kcalExperience 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!
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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.
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My Best Tini Mac and Cheese Tips
- 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.
Delicious Variations You’ll Want to Try
1. Bacon & Caramelized Onion Tini Mac and Cheese
Smoky, salty, and just a bit sweet, crispy bacon bits and golden caramelized onions take the flavor of your tini mac and cheese to gourmet levels. Fold them in just before serving and top with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a grown-up twist.
2. Broccoli Cheddar Tini Mac and Cheese
For a wholesome veggie boost, stir in lightly steamed broccoli florets and swap some of the cheese for sharp aged cheddar. It’s a clever way to add nutrients without compromising on that creamy indulgence.
3. Buffalo Chicken Tini Mac and Cheese
Spicy and bold, this version is for heat lovers. Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken, a splash of buffalo sauce, and a handful of Monterey Jack or blue cheese. Finish with chopped scallions for a zesty finish.
4. Truffle & Parmesan Tini Mac and Cheese
Perfect for date night or a cozy dinner in, add a few drops of truffle oil and stir in freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. It’s elegant, earthy, and feels like something you’d order at a bistro, not whip up in your kitchen.
FAQs
Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the best results.
If you can’t find Gruyère, try fontina or Swiss cheese. For cheddar, opt for any sharp cheese you enjoy.
Yes, but the crispy topping adds a delightful texture. You can also use crushed crackers or potato chips as alternatives.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Let’s Wrap It Up
There’s something universally comforting about a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese, and this tini mac and cheese recipe hits all the right notes. It’s cozy yet elevated, simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough for guests. Whether you’re going classic or trying a flavorful twist, it’s a dish that invites creativity and guarantees satisfaction.
If you’ve been searching for a go-to mac and cheese recipe that’s reliable, customizable, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table, this is it. And trust me, once you’ve made it, you’ll keep coming back to this creamy, crave-worthy favorite.
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!
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