There's something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. But when TikTok’s beloved foodie, Tini, shared her take on this classic dish, the internet went wild. Her recipe delivers the ultimate velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an instant favorite for mac and cheese lovers everywhere.

I first tried Tini’s viral TikTok mac and cheese out of sheer curiosity, but after one bite, I was hooked. The balance of flavors, the smooth texture, and the rich cheesiness were simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why You'll Love Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese

Get ready to experience the creamiest, most indulgent mac and cheese you’ve ever had. Here’s why this recipe stands out from the rest:

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, anyone can master this dish, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned home cook.

Second, the texture is unbeatable. The combination of high-quality cheeses and a silky roux-based sauce ensures that every bite is smooth, creamy, and loaded with flavor.

It’s also endlessly customizable. Whether you love a little heat, extra cheesiness, or a crispy topping, this recipe can be adapted to fit your taste preferences.

Best of all, it’s quick! From start to finish, you can have a restaurant-quality mac and cheese on your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this mac and cheese lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Let’s break them down:

Elbow macaroni is the traditional pasta choice, as its shape holds onto the sauce perfectly. If you prefer a different pasta, cavatappi or shells work well too.

Cheddar cheese is the star of the show. Tini’s version calls for sharp cheddar, which brings a bold, tangy flavor. For the best results, always shred your own cheese rather than using pre-packaged shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smoothness.

Heavy cream and whole milk create the perfect balance of richness and creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but be aware that the sauce may not be as indulgent.

Butter and flour form the base of a classic roux, which helps thicken the sauce and create a velvety texture. Don’t rush this step—it’s the foundation of a great mac and cheese!

Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Tini’s version is simple yet packed with taste, making every bite incredibly satisfying.

How To Make Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese

Creating this decadent mac and cheese is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add your elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, but be sure to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Meanwhile, in a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute until it forms a smooth paste. This step is crucial for eliminating any raw flour taste and creating the perfect thickening base.

Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes until it begins to thicken. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.

Lower the heat and start adding the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring after each addition until fully melted. Add your seasonings and continue stirring until everything is well combined and silky smooth.

Finally, add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, gently folding everything together until every piece of pasta is coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serve immediately and enjoy the creamiest mac and cheese you’ve ever tasted!

Storage Options

This mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain their creamy texture.

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but don’t worry—you can revive it with a splash of milk when reheating.

For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each round, until warmed through.

Freezing is not recommended, as the cheese sauce can become grainy upon thawing.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this mac and cheese recipe is its versatility. Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:

For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also mix in diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Want a smoky, savory twist? Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon or swap out some of the cheddar for smoked gouda.

For a crispy, baked version, transfer the finished mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.

If you’re looking for a protein boost, mix in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground beef for a heartier meal.

Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter, almond or oat milk, and a dairy-free cheese alternative to create a creamy, vegan-friendly version.

No matter how you customize it, Tini’s viral TikTok mac and cheese is sure to be a hit. Try it once, and you’ll understand why the internet can’t get enough of it!