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Golden-brown mac and cheese with crispy breadcrumbs in a ceramic dish, topped with parsley

Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese Recipe


  • Author: Anna
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loved for its creamy, velvety sauce and irresistible cheesy flavor. Combining sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan with a hint of sour cream and garlic powder, this mac and cheese is a surefire hit for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Optional crunchy breadcrumbs elevate it to the next level.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the roux)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
  • 3 cups whole milk (for a creamy base)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • ¼ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for added flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
    • Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux

    • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
  3. Add the Milk

    • Gradually pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
    • Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and reaches a gentle simmer.
  4. Add the Cheeses

    • Reduce heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
    • Mix until fully melted, smooth, and creamy.
  5. Season the Sauce

    • Add the sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Stir well to combine all the flavors.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.
    • Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
  7. Add Breadcrumbs (Optional)

    • If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese.
    • Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

  1. Use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest texture—pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
  2. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  3. Skip breadcrumbs for a smooth, creamy finish or broil them for an added crunch.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Boiling, Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 17 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, viral recipe, TikTok mac and cheese, creamy pasta, comfort food