Tini's Mac and Cheese

30 mins
Serves 1
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Directions

  1. 1Boil cavatappi noodles in a pot filled with salted water.
  2. 2Grate the sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella cheeses. Make sure to hand grate all cheeses for the best result.
  3. 3Toss all the grated cheeses together to combine.
  4. 4Separate half of the combined cheese into a small bowl, as it will be used for layering.
  5. 5Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for the seasoning mixture.
  6. 6In a pan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
  7. 7Add half of the seasoning mixture to the melted butter and stir.
  8. 8Add 3 tablespoons of flour to the pan and whisk to create a roux.
  9. 9Pour in the evaporated milk while whisking.
  10. 10Add the heavy cream while whisking.
  11. 11Add the remaining seasoning mixture and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
  12. 12Turn off the heat or set it to low, then gradually add the cheese to the sauce, whisking well until creamy and melted.
  13. 13Add the boiled noodles to the cheesy sauce and mix well until fully coated.
  14. 14Pour half of the mac and cheese into a baking pan and spread it out.
  15. 15Layer half of the separated cheese on top of the mac and cheese in the pan.
  16. 16Add the remaining mac and cheese to the pan and spread it out.
  17. 17Top with the rest of the cheese.
  18. 18Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, then broil for the last 5 minutes to get a crunchy exterior and a velvety, buttery, gooey center.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb cavatappi noodles
  • 1 lb mozzarella cheese
  • 1 lb Colby Jack cheese
  • 0.5 lb sharp cheddar cheese
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp pepper
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 16 oz evaporated milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Equipment

potgratersmall bowlpanwhiskbaking panwooden spoonoven

Tips

  • Hand grate all your cheeses for the best result. It can be tiring so consider investing in a hand-rotating grater.
  • Use smoked paprika for a nice depth of flavor.
  • For the roux, ensure the temperature is right and whisk everything well, using full-fat ingredients.