Tini’s Mac and Cheese for Two

If you’re dying to try the viral Tini mac and cheese recipe but don’t have a crowd to feed, this version scaled down for 2 is perfect for you! I promise you it’s sooo worth it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The mix of milks in this sauce makes it the CREAMIEST I’ve ever had. With the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy, this dish is guaranteed to impress. 
• A teeny bit of mustard takes this to the next level.
• Perfect for two people or one person with a big appetite.

The Star of the Dish : Cheese

When it comes to making the best mac and cheese, using freshly grated cheese is an absolute must! This original recipe uses a mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella cheese, and Colby Jack cheese to create the ultimate cheesy experience.  For the scaled down version I use 2 cups of shredded cheese & choose to skip Colby Jack just to avoid buying 3 whole blocks of cheese. BUT you totally can if you want – just make sure it adds up to 2 cups of freshly shredded cheese total.

What makes Tini’s the perfect Mac and Cheese?

What makes Tini’s mac and cheese so special? The secret lies in her cheese sauce made with a silky roux, a mix of evaporated milk, heavy cream, and a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. Plus there’s that smoked paprika and garlic powder takes the seasoning mixture to the next level. I opt for a little more seasoning than she does cause it makes the final result extra delicious.

Why is Tini’s Mac & Cheese so popular?

This TikTok recipe gained popularity because of Chef Tini & has taken over thanksgiving tables everywhere. The original recipe uses 2 pounds of cheese to that satisfying moment when the cheese melts into gooey perfection, it’s easy to see why it became a viral recipe. BUT for our version we just use 2 cups.

Tini’s Mac and Cheese Ingredients 

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 cups of freshly grated Cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
• 0.5 cups of freshly shredded Mozzarella block
• Evaporated milk + Heavy cream
• Dijon mustard
• Spices : garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper

How to Make Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese

1. Boil the cavatappi pasta or macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter in a large pan, then stir in flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add in some evaporated milk and whisk until smooth. Stir in heavy cream, then season with Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Slowly add the two cups of cheese and stir until the cheese is melted.
5. Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta and transfer to a casserole dish.
6. Add some more freshly grated cheese on top and broil for 2 minutes to give the top a golden crust.

More Holiday Recipes

• Crispy Cajun Smashed Potatoes
• Brown Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies
• Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip
• & More!

Tini’s Mac and Cheese for Two (or One)

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★★★★★

5 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2

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Description

If you’re dying to try the viral Tini mac and cheese recipe but don’t have a crowd to feed, this version made for 2 is perfect for you! I promise you it’s sooo worth it.

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Ingredients

Scale

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• 1.33 cups dry cavatappi pasta (or macaroni)
• 1 tbsp salted butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
• 0.5 cups mozzarella (freshly shredded)
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1/4–1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• 1/3 cup Evaporated Milk
• 2/3 cup Heavy Cream
• Extra grated cheese for the top (I use 1/2 cup)

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Instructions

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and salt it. Add the cavatappi pasta or macaroni in salted water and boil for 7 minutes until al dente.
2. Mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper in a bowl.
3. In a saucepan add the butter and melt it on medium heat. Add in the bowl of spices and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices, then add in the flour and mix well. Let it cook for another minute & move onto the next step. Don’t let the flour burn!
4. Add in the evaporated milk and whisk until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and dijon mustard. Cook on medium-low until it thickens a bit.
5. Slowly add the two cups of cheese and stir until the cheese is melted.
6. Add in the cooked pasta and transfer to a small baking dish.
7. Add some more freshly grated cheese on top and bake at 350F for 10 minutes. Broil on high for 2 minutes to give the top a golden crust.

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