There's nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese to bring comfort and nostalgia in every bite. But when social media sensation Tini shared her version on TikTok, the internet couldn't get enough. This isn't just any mac and cheese—it's rich, ultra-creamy, and packed with flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
I first came across this recipe while scrolling through my feed late at night, and I was instantly hooked. The way the cheese melted so effortlessly into the sauce was mesmerizing. After making it myself, I can confirm—this recipe is a total game-changer. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it.
Why You'll Love This Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese
Get ready to fall in love with mac and cheese all over again. This recipe isn't just a hit online—it’s a must-have for your dinner rotation.
First off, it’s incredibly creamy. The cheese sauce coats every piece of pasta perfectly, giving you that luscious, velvety texture in every bite.
It’s also super easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in no time. No complicated roux or endless stirring—just pure, cheesy goodness.
Plus, it's completely customizable. Want to add a little spice? Toss in some hot sauce or smoked paprika. Prefer a protein boost? Stir in some crispy bacon or shredded chicken.
And let’s not forget the viral factor. If you love trying out trending recipes, this one is definitely worth the hype. You’ll impress your friends and family with a dish that’s TikTok-approved!
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this mac and cheese lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the rich, indulgent flavor.
The pasta is the foundation of the dish. Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but cavatappi or shell pasta works beautifully too, holding onto every bit of that creamy sauce.
Cheese selection is key. Tini’s recipe calls for a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, creating the ideal balance between bold flavor and gooey stretchiness. If you want to elevate it, try adding a touch of smoked gouda or gruyere.
To achieve that signature creaminess, a combination of heavy cream and evaporated milk is used. This duo ensures a thick, luscious texture without the need for a traditional flour-based roux.
A touch of butter brings richness, while seasonings like garlic powder and black pepper enhance the overall taste. And of course, a pinch of salt is essential to bring everything together.
A large, oven-safe skillet or baking dish is recommended if you plan to broil the top for that delicious golden-brown finish.
How To Make This Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese
Making this mac and cheese is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for the ultimate cheesy experience.
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until al dente. You want it slightly firm because it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then pour in the heavy cream and evaporated milk. Stir occasionally, letting the mixture heat up without boiling.
Once warm, begin adding the cheese in batches, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. This step is key—letting the cheese melt gradually prevents clumping and ensures a velvety finish.
Season with garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Give it a taste and adjust as needed. At this point, you can also add any extras like hot sauce or smoked paprika for a twist.
Finally, fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is coated in that luscious sauce. If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with more cheese, and broil for a few minutes until golden and bubbly.
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend treat.
Storage Options
Mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers to enjoy later!
For refrigeration, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, but a splash of milk when reheating will bring back the creamy texture.
For freezing, let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
To reheat, warm on low heat with a bit of extra milk or cream to restore its smooth consistency. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can make the sauce grainy.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so easy to tweak to your liking. Here are some fun ways to change it up:
Love spice? Add a dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Want extra protein? Mix in crispy bacon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or sautéed shrimp for a more filling meal.
Need a gluten-free version? Simply swap the pasta for gluten-free macaroni and make sure your cheese and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Craving extra crunch? Top with buttery breadcrumbs before broiling for a crispy, golden topping.
Prefer a healthier twist? Substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese to lighten it up a bit.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!
PrintTini’s Viral Tiktok Mac And Cheese Recipe
Tini’s viral TikTok Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a must-try comfort food recipe!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Baking (optional)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, and parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
- (Optional) Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add cooked bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
Leave a Reply