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Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese

Tini’s Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy Comfort Food Bliss

Tini's Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy and nostalgic dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Cavatappi Pasta Can substitute with elbow macaroni or shell pasta if needed.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Use room temperature cheese for better melting.
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese Feel free to mix in a sharp cheese for extra flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Can substitute margarine if desired.
  • ¼ cup Flour Gluten-free flour can also be used.
  • 1 can Evaporated Milk Regular milk can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to suit your taste preferences.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground offers the best taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Adds a subtle tang.

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch casserole dish
  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the cavatappi pasta until al dente (about 7–9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  4. Whisk in half the seasoning mixture (salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard) into the melted butter for about 1–2 minutes. Gradually add ¼ cup of flour, stirring continuously.
  5. Slowly whisk in 1 can of evaporated milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, cooking until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheese mixture until smooth. Fold in cooked cavatappi pasta.
  7. Transfer half of the macaroni mixture into the greased casserole dish and sprinkle with half of the remaining cheese. Repeat with the second half.
  8. Bake for approximately 30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Broil for an additional 3–4 minutes for a golden crust.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 600mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow cheeses to reach room temperature before using. Gradually add cheese into the warm sauce to achieve creamy consistency. Prepare up to baking stage and refrigerate for later use.

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