Tini's Macaroni and Cheese

Name: Tini's Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of Tini's Macaroni and Cheese, a comforting classic that's perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This easy-to-follow recipe features three types of cheese, a crunch topping, and a secret ingredient that makes it truly unforgettable. Whether you're a mac and cheese fan or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T07:07:56.074Z

Perfect for Any Occasion

Tini's Macaroni and Cheese is not just another dish; it's a comforting classic that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. Whether it's a cozy family dinner on a chilly night or a lively potluck with friends, this dish brings everyone together. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor are irresistible, making it a favorite for both children and adults alike. You can even serve it as a side dish during holiday gatherings, where it will surely steal the show!

What sets this macaroni and cheese apart is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or even spices to personalize it to your liking. Imagine incorporating broccoli, chicken, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. This adaptability makes Tini's Macaroni and Cheese an ideal choice, ensuring that there’s something for everyone at the table.

A Cheese Lover's Dream

This recipe features a delightful blend of three kinds of cheese - cheddar, mozzarella, and feta. Each type brings its unique flavor and texture, resulting in a creamy and rich cheese sauce that coats every elbow macaroni. Cheddar is known for its sharpness, mozzarella for its stretchiness, and feta adds a bite that enhances the overall taste experience. Together, they create a harmonious profile that cheese lovers will adore.

Another fantastic aspect of this recipe is the secret ingredient: the crumbly feta, which elevates the traditional mac and cheese into a gourmet dish. The combination of cheeses offers depth, with the mozzarella adding creaminess, the cheddar introducing richness, and the feta contributing a tangy twist. This medley not only makes the dish unforgettable but also adds a gourmet touch that many mac and cheese recipes lack.

Ingredients

For the Macaroni and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the recipe!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and feta cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results with Tini's Macaroni and Cheese, it’s crucial to cook the pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy once baked, affecting the texture of the finished dish. Follow the package instructions, and be sure to drain the pasta well to prevent excess water from diluting the cheese sauce.

When preparing the cheese sauce, be patient while whisking in the milk. Gradually incorporating it will help prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy sauce. Keep the heat at a medium level to avoid burning the butter or cooking the flour too quickly.

Serving Suggestions

For added flavor, consider serving Tini's Macaroni and Cheese with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh taste that complements the rich cheese. Additionally, a side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the heaviness of the dish beautifully.

If you're serving this mac and cheese as a main course, pairing it with roasted vegetables or a protein like grilled chicken makes for a well-rounded meal. You could also offer a variety of hot sauces on the side for guests who prefer a spicy kick. This way, everyone can customize their plate to their taste, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ What can I substitute for the cheeses?

Feel free to use your favorite cheeses, such as gouda or pepper jack for a twist!