chef tini mac and cheese recipe

chef tini mac and cheese recipe

The Best chef tini mac and cheese recipe

I’ve always been a fan of classic mac and cheese, and Chef Tini’s recipe is a game-changer. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it’s ridiculously easy to make. I first discovered this recipe on a food blog, and I was immediately hooked.

The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese is pure magic, and the addition of a crunchy breadcrumb topping takes it to a whole new level. My family loves it when I make this for dinner, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The best part?

It’s actually pretty healthy compared to some other comfort food options. The pasta is a good source of complex carbohydrates, and the cheese provides a boost of calcium. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it more substantial.

I like to add some steamed broccoli or cauliflower on the side to round out the meal. It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you try it. I’ve made this recipe for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a quick weeknight dinner.

It’s always a hit, and I love how easy it is to scale up or down depending on the occasion.

Chef Tini Mac and Cheese

Chef Tini Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 1751 votes

A rich and creamy mac and cheese recipe inspired by Chef Tini. This dish features a velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce

3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dry mustard

For Topping

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
3Add 1 tsp of salt and elbow macaroni.
4Cook pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
5Drain and set aside.
6In a saucepan, melt 3 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
7Add 3 tbsp of flour and whisk to form a roux.
8Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
9Gradually add 3 cups of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
10Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
11Add 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Season with 1 tsp of salt, 1 tsp of black pepper, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of onion powder, 1 tsp of paprika, and 1 tsp of dry mustard.
13Stir well to combine.
14Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in a baking dish, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
15In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp of melted butter.
16Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta.
17Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
18Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Watch Video Of How Chef Tini Mac and Cheese Works

This mac and cheese recipe has become a staple in my household because of its simplicity and versatility.

Not only does it taste amazing every time, but it also stores beautifully in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge or two months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge then bake at 350°F (180°C) until warm through – about 20-25 minutes depending on your oven’s performance.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chef Tini Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta works best for mac and cheese?

A: Chef Tini recommends using a high-quality cheddar cheese that melts well, such as Cabot or Tillamook. For the pasta, you can use any shape you like – elbow macaroni, shells, or even penne work well. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when you mix it with the cheese sauce.

Q: Can I use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives?

A: While you can certainly experiment with different types of milk or cheese alternatives, keep in mind that they may affect the flavor and texture of the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar instead of full-fat versions.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from getting too brown?

A: To prevent over-browning, simply cover the top of the dish with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will help maintain that perfect golden crust without burning it.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes – in fact, making this recipe ahead of time is one of its best features! Simply assemble the casserole without baking it, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven as directed.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: No worries – you can easily substitute regular milk for buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon white vinegar per cup milk.

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