There's nothing quite like the ooey-gooey comfort of homemade mac and cheese, and Tini's viral TikTok version takes it to a whole new level. This ultra-creamy, cheesy dish has taken the internet by storm, and after one bite, you'll see why. With its rich, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it's the ultimate indulgence for cheese lovers everywhere.
I first came across this recipe when scrolling through TikTok late at night, and I knew I had to try it immediately. The simplicity and decadence caught my attention, and after making it just once, I was hooked. Now, it's a staple in my home whenever I need a quick, satisfying meal that never fails to impress.
Why You'll Love This Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac And Cheese
Get ready to discover your new favorite mac and cheese recipe. This version is not just incredibly creamy and flavorful—it's also ridiculously easy to make.
One of the best things about this recipe is how fast it comes together. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a homemade dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant. No need to spend hours in the kitchen when this mac and cheese delivers instant comfort.
The richness of the cheese sauce is unbeatable. Tini’s version uses a perfect blend of cheeses, resulting in a velvety, smooth texture that clings beautifully to every bite of pasta. If you love indulgent, cheesy goodness, this recipe is for you.
It’s a foolproof recipe that works every time. Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you’ll be able to pull off this dish with ease. The method is straightforward, making it accessible to beginners and experts alike.
This mac and cheese is endlessly customizable. Whether you want to add crispy bacon, spicy jalapeños, or extra seasonings, this recipe serves as the perfect base for your creative additions.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet high-impact ingredients. Each component works together to create the ultimate creamy mac and cheese experience.
Start with pasta—elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can use shells, cavatappi, or any short pasta that holds sauce well. Cooking it just until al dente ensures the perfect texture when combined with the cheese sauce.
The magic of the sauce begins with heavy cream and milk. This combination creates the rich, silky base that coats every noodle. Using whole milk is best, as lower-fat options won’t provide the same level of creaminess.
A great mac and cheese is all about the cheese blend. Tini’s version uses a mix of sharp cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella for the ultimate meltability and flavor. Freshly shredding your cheese instead of using pre-packaged shreds is key to achieving the smoothest sauce.
To enhance the depth of flavor, a touch of butter and seasonings is essential. A dash of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika adds warmth and complexity, making this dish even more irresistible.
If you have a cast-iron skillet, this is the perfect dish to make in it. The even heat distribution helps the cheese melt seamlessly, and if you want a baked finish, you can pop it straight into the oven for a golden, bubbly top.
How To Make This Tini’s Viral TikTok Mac And Cheese

Making this mac and cheese is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Let’s break it down step by step.
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta to al dente. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to absorb some of the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
In a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s sizzling. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth base. Let it heat through without boiling to keep the sauce velvety and rich.
Gradually add the freshly shredded cheeses, one handful at a time, stirring until each addition melts completely. Continue mixing until the sauce reaches a thick, luscious consistency. This step is crucial to prevent lumps and ensure an even melt.
Once the sauce is perfectly smooth, season it with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed. The combination of these seasonings brings out the best in the cheese, giving the dish an irresistible depth of flavor.
Finally, fold in the cooked pasta, making sure every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Stir gently to combine, and if you want an extra gooey finish, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before serving. For a crispy, baked version, transfer it to a buttered skillet and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
In just 25 minutes, you’ll have the most decadent mac and cheese that tastes like a dream. Serve it immediately while it’s warm, melty, and utterly irresistible.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), storing them properly ensures they stay just as creamy when reheated.
Transfer the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the cheese from drying out.
For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture.
To reheat, warm the mac and cheese in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure an even heat distribution. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each round to keep the sauce smooth.
Variations and Substitutions
This mac and cheese is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs.
For a protein boost, add cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even ground beef. These additions make it heartier and perfect for a full meal.
If you want a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. A drizzle of hot sauce on top takes it to the next level.
Swap out the pasta for gluten-free varieties if needed. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free options that hold up well in creamy sauces.
For a smoky, savory twist, try using smoked gouda or adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke. This variation gives the mac and cheese an entirely new depth of flavor.
If you love a crispy topping, bake the mac and cheese with a layer of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Broiling it for a few minutes creates a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
No matter how you customize it, this viral mac and cheese recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and experience why the internet can’t get enough of Tini’s delicious creation!
PrintTini’s Viral Tiktok Mac And Cheese Recipe
Tini’s viral TikTok mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort dish! This rich, creamy, and cheesy mac and cheese is made with simple ingredients and a foolproof method, ensuring a deliciously smooth and flavorful bite every time. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving classic homemade mac and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until heated.
- Gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use high-quality cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk when reheating.
- Customize with add-ins like crispy bacon or hot sauce for a twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
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