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–+ servings
Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy Comfort for Everyone

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting staple that offers creamy goodness and versatility for any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces cavatappi pasta Feel free to substitute with elbow macaroni or shells.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter Use unsalted for better control of seasoning.
  • 3 tablespoons flour Ensure it’s well combined with the butter.
  • 1 cup evaporated milk Substitute with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup heavy cream You can use more evaporated milk for a healthier sauce.
For the Cheese
  • 16 ounces mixed cheeses Try mozzarella and cheddar, or switch it up with gouda or provolone.
For Flavoring
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Optional but adds depth.
  • seasoning mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Equipment

  • Casserole dish
  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 casserole dish with unsalted butter.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add cavatappi pasta, and cook for about 7-8 minutes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in half of your seasoning mix for about 1 minute.
  4. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually add 1 cup of evaporated milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking until thickened.
  5. Stir in the remaining seasoning mix and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, then incorporate half of the mixed cheeses until melted.
  6. Fold cooked cavatappi into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is coated.
  7. Layer half of the macaroni mixture into the greased dish, sprinkle half of the remaining cheese, add the rest of the macaroni, and top with the remaining cheese.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes, broiling for 3-4 minutes at the end for a crispy top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For added nutrition, consider incorporating steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach.

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