Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese Recipe
Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy stovetop mac and cheese recipe that uses milk to cook the pasta directly, creating a rich and velvety sauce. Featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, this comfort food classic is elevated with optional garlic and mustard powders, sour cream for extra creaminess, and an optional breadcrumb topping for a crunchy finish. Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for a cozy meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Optional Ingredients
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a medium saucepan, combine the elbow macaroni and whole milk over medium heat. Simmer gently, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the milk has been absorbed. Do not drain the pasta.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the butter, shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and mustard powder if using. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Sour Cream (Optional): Fold in the sour cream carefully to add extra richness and creaminess to the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, mixing well to incorporate all flavors.
- Optional Topping: If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese and place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve the mac and cheese hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh flavor and appealing presentation.
Notes
- Using whole milk creates a creamy texture, but heavy cream can be substituted for an even richer dish.
- Do not drain the pasta after cooking as the milk helps create a creamy sauce.
- Adjust seasoning carefully; cheeses provide saltiness, so salt sparingly.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds nice texture contrast.
- You can omit garlic and mustard powders if preferred, but they add depth of flavor.
- Sour cream is optional but enhances creaminess and tanginess.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure cheeses are suitable (rennet-free) and omit any non-vegetarian ingredients if adding extras.
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, Tini's TikTok mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, quick comfort food
