🧀 Chef Tini's Mac and Cheese
A creamy and cheesy mac and cheese recipe that has gone viral for its rich flavor and comforting texture, perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy meal.
Category: main
Ingredients
- 1 pound Cavatappi pasta (substitutions: Elbow macaroni, Fusilli)
- 1 pound Mozzarella cheese (substitutions: Provolone cheese)
- 1 pound Colby Jack cheese (substitutions: Monterey Jack cheese)
- 0.5 pounds Sharp cheddar cheese (substitutions: Medium cheddar cheese)
- 0.5 cups Butter (substitutions: Margarine)
- 0.5 cups All-purpose flour (substitutions: Gluten-free flour blend)
- 4 cups Milk (substitutions: Almond milk, Soy milk)
- to taste Salt (substitutions: Sea salt)
- to taste Black pepper (substitutions: White pepper)
Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Baking dish
- Stove
- Grater
Instructions
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Step 1: Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
What to look for: Pasta should be firm but cooked through.
Watch out: Don't overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven.
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Step 2: In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
What to look for: Butter should be fully melted but not browned.
Watch out: Avoid high heat to prevent burning the butter.
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Step 3: Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously to form a roux.
What to look for: The mixture should be smooth and bubbly, with a light golden color.
Watch out: Don't stop stirring; the roux can burn easily.
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Step 4: Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
What to look for: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Watch out: Add milk slowly to prevent lumps.
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Step 5: Stir in the mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.
What to look for: The cheese should be fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Watch out: Make sure to use freshly shredded cheese for best results.
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Step 6: Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and mix well.
What to look for: Pasta should be evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
Watch out: Don't leave any dry pasta; ensure all is mixed well.
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Step 7: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
What to look for: The top should be golden and bubbly.
Watch out: Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Original source: tiktok
Guided step-by-step with AI-powered photo feedback on Kitchen's Witch.