Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made right in the saucepan without the need to drain pasta. With a blend of three cheeses and optional seasonings, it’s rich, smooth, and perfect for any macaroni lover looking for a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the elbow macaroni and whole milk over medium heat. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender and most of the milk is absorbed. Do not drain the mixture.
2. Step 2: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the unsalted butter, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and mustard powder if using. Continue stirring until all the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Step 3: Fold in the sour cream if using, for added richness and creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese and place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
5. Step 5: Serve the mac and cheese hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use heavy cream instead of milk for an even richer and creamier texture.
• Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
• Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese to vary the taste.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra savory depth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. For best texture, avoid overheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, this recipe works well with other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.

Do I have to use sour cream?

No, sour cream is optional. It adds extra creaminess, but the dish is delicious without it as well.

Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 88 reviews

Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made by cooking elbow macaroni directly in milk to create a rich sauce, combining multiple cheeses for depth of flavor, and optionally topped with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. This easy stovetop recipe results in a luscious, smooth mac and cheese with an irresistibly gooey texture and can be customized with optional ingredients for extra creaminess and flavor.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Dairy:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

Seasonings and Garnish:

• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a medium saucepan, combine the elbow macaroni and whole milk over medium heat. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the milk has been absorbed. Do not drain the mixture to retain the creamy sauce base.
2. Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the unsalted butter, shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and mustard powder if using. Continue stirring until all the cheeses have melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Add Sour Cream (Optional): Fold in the sour cream gently to add extra richness and creaminess to the mac and cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste and mix well to combine.
4. Optional Topping: If you desire a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese. Place the dish under a broiler for 2–3 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
5. Serve: Serve the mac and cheese hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

• The recipe can be enriched by substituting whole milk with heavy cream.
• Sour cream is optional but adds a lush, creamy texture.
• Breadcrumb topping provides a nice crisp contrast but can be omitted for a softer dish.
• Keep stirring during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the pan.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to personal preference.

Keywords: mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, viral TikTok recipe, creamy mac and cheese, cheese sauce, easy comfort food