Dinner

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese (Viral Recipe) Recipe

BySana Jeannette January 3, 2026January 3, 2026

Introduction

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic with a delicious twist of smoky paprika and garlic. This viral recipe combines three types of cheese and a rich, velvety sauce that bakes to bubbly perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners or any time you crave a warm, satisfying meal.

A close-up view shows a large spoon lifting a portion of baked macaroni and cheese from a dish set against a white marbled texture. The dish has one main thick layer of elbow macaroni covered in creamy, melted cheese with a golden brown crust on top, showing some darker baked spots. The cheese is gooey and stretchy, with light yellow and golden shades, dripping from the spoon. The macaroni pieces are soft and coated well with the cheese sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz cavatappi pasta
16 oz colby jack cheese

8 oz mozzarella cheese
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder

3 tablespoons salted butter
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
2 cups heavy cream

1 tablespoon dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 casserole dish.
Step 2: Grate all cheeses and mix them together in a bowl, reserving half for layering later.

Step 3: Cook the cavatappi pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain well.
Step 4: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and add half of the smoked paprika and garlic powder.
Step 5: Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture bubbles slightly.

Step 6: Gradually pour in the evaporated milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly until smooth. Bring to a low boil, then stir in the remaining spices and dijon mustard.
Step 7: Add half of the cheese mixture to the sauce and stir until melted and creamy. Then fold in the cooked pasta.
Step 8: Spread half of the macaroni mixture into the casserole dish, then sprinkle with half of the reserved cheese.

Step 9: Add the remaining macaroni mixture on top, finishing with the rest of the reserved cheese.
Step 10: Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Optionally, broil for 3–4 minutes to get a crispy top.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Try adding cooked bacon or sautéed onions for a smoky flavor boost.
Substitute gouda or pepper jack for different cheese variations.
Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals stirring occasionally to avoid drying out.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a scoop of macaroni and cheese being lifted, with gooey, melted cheese stretching between the scoop and the white dish below. The dish has a golden-brown top layer of baked cheese, slightly crispy and bubbly, covering soft, creamy pasta underneath. The macaroni noodles are well-coated in creamy, pale yellow cheese sauce that looks smooth and thick, with strands of melted cheese pulling up from the spoonful. The white marbled surface beneath adds a clean and bright contrast to the rich colors of the macaroni and cheese. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

This version relies heavily on dairy cheeses and cream for its rich flavor and texture. For a dairy-free alternative, try using plant-based cheeses and milk substitutes, but keep in mind the texture and taste will change.

What pasta can I use if I don’t have cavatappi?

Any short, sturdy pasta like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini works well. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds sauce nicely and won’t become mushy after baking.