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Mac and cheese has long been a favorite comfort food, but Tini’s viral TikTok recipe takes it to the next level! With a combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, this mac and cheese is creamy, gooey, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or preparing it for a special gathering, this recipe promises to satisfy all your cravings. What makes this recipe stand out is its perfect balance of flavors and textures, along with the optional crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting, elevating the classic mac and cheese to new heights. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes! Tini’s viral recipe combines creamy cheese, rich sour cream, and a savory garlic kick to create a truly unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to dive into this viral sensation? Follow the simple instructions and treat yourself to a mouthwatering bowl of mac and cheese that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Cheesy Perfection

The blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan creates an ultra-creamy texture that’s guaranteed to please any cheese lover. Every bite is rich, indulgent, and comforting.

2. Quick and Easy

This recipe is straightforward and can be made in under 30 minutes. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners or when you need something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

3. Versatile Ingredients

Using simple pantry staples like pasta, butter, and cheese, you can easily make this dish without having to hunt for special ingredients. It’s a fuss-free recipe with a big impact.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

Add extra ingredients like crispy bacon or a dash of hot sauce to personalize the flavor. You can also adjust the seasoning or skip the breadcrumbs if you prefer a smooth, creamy finish.

5. Viral for a Reason

This mac and cheese recipe took TikTok by storm for a reason—its flavor, texture, and ease of preparation are all on point. You’ll be making this recipe over and over again!

Ingredients

Elbow macaroni
Unsalted butter
All-purpose flour
Whole milk
Sharp cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Sour cream
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Breadcrumbs (optional)

Variations

Bacon Mac and Cheese

For a savory twist, add crispy bacon bits into the creamy sauce or sprinkle them on top before broiling.

Spicy Mac and Cheese

If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.

Veggie Mac and Cheese

Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to make the dish more filling and flavorful.

Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese

Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free, and be sure to check your flour to ensure it’s suitable for gluten-free diets.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking the sauce until it thickens to a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Once the sauce is thickened, add the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Add the Flavoring

Mix in the sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss to coat each piece of pasta with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Optional Breadcrumbs

If you’re adding breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top of the mac and cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure to whisk constantly when adding the milk to avoid lumps in your sauce.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese can sometimes cause clumping.
For extra creaminess, add a little extra sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs while broiling to prevent them from burning.

How to Serve

Serve this mac and cheese as a side dish to grilled meats or a hearty salad. It also works well as a main course, especially if you add extra toppings like bacon or veggies. Pair it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade for a complete comfort meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.

Freezing

This recipe can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

Reheat the mac and cheese in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little milk if it’s too thick, and stir until smooth and heated.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any short pasta shape, such as penne or shells, if you don’t have elbow macaroni.

2. Can I make this recipe without sour cream?

Yes, you can omit the sour cream, though it adds a nice creaminess and tang. You can replace it with extra cheese or a small amount of cream cheese.

3. How can I make the mac and cheese spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, fontina, or Gruyère would work beautifully in this recipe.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the pasta with gluten-free macaroni and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

6. How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?

Whisk constantly when adding the milk and ensure your cheese is fully melted before adding the pasta.

7. How can I make this mac and cheese healthier?

To reduce calories, use reduced-fat cheese, milk, and sour cream, or even swap the butter for olive oil.

8. Can I add meat to this mac and cheese?

Yes! Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken to make this a more substantial meal.

9. Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before storing in an airtight container in the freezer.

10. How do I make the breadcrumbs crispy?

Broiling for 2-3 minutes creates a perfectly crispy topping. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Tini’s viral TikTok mac and cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of creamy cheese, the savory bite of garlic, and the comfort of perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is not only easy to make but also highly customizable to suit any taste preferences. Whether you prefer it plain or with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s sure to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this viral sensation that will have everyone coming back for more!