Tini’s Mac and Cheese

Name: Tini’s Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy, cheesy, and completely irresistible, Tini’s Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food for your Thanksgiving feast. This recipe features a blend of rich cheeses and a velvety sauce, baked to perfection until golden and bubbling. Ideal as a side dish or a standout main, it’s sure to become the star of your holiday table.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-11-29T16:20:01.781Z

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Goodness

There's something undeniably indulgent about a warm, cheesy dish of mac and cheese. From the first bite, you experience a delightful combination of flavors and textures that cocoon you in a comforting embrace. It's more than just food; it’s a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings, laughter, and shared moments around the dinner table. Whether you’ve enjoyed it as a child or are savoring it for the first time, Tini’s Mac and Cheese reconnects us to simpler, happier times.

Home-cooked meals offer a personal touch that store-bought alternatives simply can't replicate. They carry the energy and intentions of the cook, making every bite taste like love. This recipe encourages creativity—feel free to add your own twists, like vegetables or different cheeses. Customization allows everyone at the table to enjoy the dish their way, further enhancing the shared experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While Tini’s Mac and Cheese is a standout at Thanksgiving, it’s equally suited for a weeknight dinner, potlucks, or even a cozy date night at home. The versatility of this dish makes it a go-to for teenagers and adults alike. It’s an ideal side that complements roasted turkey, succulent ham, or grilled veggies, yet it can easily shine as the main attraction when served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Moreover, this mac and cheese offers the flexibility to be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble it earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator. When your guests arrive, simply pop it into the oven for a delicious meal that feels freshly made. This ease in preparation allows you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen, enhancing your holiday experience.

Make It Your Own

One of the joys of cooking is the opportunity for personalization. With Tini's Mac and Cheese, you can easily adjust ingredients to cater to your family's tastes and dietary preferences. Love a kick? Consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. Prefer a smoky flavor? Incorporating smoked paprika or using smoked cheeses can elevate the dish beautifully.

You can also experiment with different types of pasta beyond the classic elbow macaroni. Consider using shells, penne, or even gluten-free options to make it suitable for everyone at your gathering. Adding protein such as cooked bacon, diced chicken, or even seasoned tofu can transform your mac and cheese into a hearty meal that pleases both kids and adults. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Tini’s Mac and Cheese:

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Mac and Cheese:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Your Tini’s Mac and Cheese is now ready to be served!

Tips for Perfecting Your Mac and Cheese

For the creamiest mac and cheese, always use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt quality and texture. A mix of cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, not only provides complexity in flavor but also ensures a luscious, creamy consistency in the sauce.

Cooking the pasta until just al dente is key to achieving the perfect texture. Overcooked pasta can become mushy after baking, while undercooked ensures the pasta will absorb the sauce without becoming overly soft. It's also important to coat the pasta thoroughly with the cheese sauce for consistent flavor throughout the dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, Tini’s Mac and Cheese stores very well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheating the dish can be a simple task if done properly. For the best results, warm it gently in the oven at a low temperature, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess as it heats through.

If you have more than you're able to eat within a few days, consider freezing portions. Mac and cheese can typically be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. With these tips, you can relish the joy of Tini’s Mac and Cheese even after the holiday festivities have passed!

Pairing Suggestions

Tini’s Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. Roasted vegetables or a grilled vegetable platter can also provide a colorful contrast while adding healthy elements to your meal.

For beverage pairing, a glass of crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese while enhancing the flavors of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, consider offering sparkling water or a refreshing iced tea infused with citrus to cleanse the palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it covered. Bake when ready to serve.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to find the perfect blend.