Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a comfort food masterpiece that brings all the cheesy goodness you crave with a delightful twist, look no further than Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe. This show-stopping dish combines three fantastic cheeses melting into a rich, velvety sauce that beautifully clings to perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta. It’s a blend of creamy, smoky, and sharp flavors that will have you coming back for seconds and sharing with everyone you know. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises a satisfying, crowd-pleasing experience every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple and authentic, focusing on ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. The cheeses deliver layers of flavor and creamy texture, the spices add a subtle kick and smokiness, and the dairy creates that smooth, luscious sauce we all love. Every ingredient plays a starring role in making Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe absolutely unforgettable.

• 1 pound mozzarella cheese: Use block mozzarella for easier shredding and melting, ensuring a smooth cheesy flow.
• 1 pound Colby Jack cheese: Adds a mild, buttery richness with beautiful marbled color.
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar: Opt for yellow cheddar to bring sharpness and that classic mac and cheese hue.
• 1 pound cavatappi pasta: The corkscrew shape is perfect for holding that irresistible sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the cheese.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky flavor to make the mac and cheese truly special.
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt: Essential for enhancing all the cheese and sauce flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a hint of spice to balance the creaminess.
• 3 tablespoons salted butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce and adds silky mouthfeel.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly without any lumps.
• 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk: Provides creaminess with a bit of density that enriches the sauce.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Brings decadence and smoothness to the cheese sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds tang and subtle complexity to elevate the overall flavor.
• Fresh chopped parsley: Freshens and brightens the dish when sprinkled on top as garnish.

How to Make Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that when your mac and cheese is ready to bake, your oven is perfectly hot to develop that golden bubbly crust everyone loves. Simple but important—never rush the baking step!

Step 2: Shred Your Cheeses

Grab your block mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar and shred them finely into a large bowl. Toss them together evenly so every cheesy bite has a harmonious mix. Then, divide the batch in half, placing half aside for layering later. This step is crucial to get that signature creamy texture in the sauce and a gooey topping.

Step 3: Cook the Cavatappi Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. The corkscrew shape is perfect for trapping the luscious cheese sauce, so getting the pasta texture right enhances the entire dish.

Step 4: Mix the Seasonings

Combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Dividing your seasoning between mixing into the sauce and sprinkling over the butter later infuses flavor throughout the dish for full-layered deliciousness.

Step 5: Start the Roux with Butter and Seasoning

Melt the salted butter in a skillet and stir in half of the seasoning mix. This flavors the fat which in turn flavors the entire sauce. It’s the foundation of the sauce’s depth and complexity.

Step 6: Make the Thickening Base

Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk immediately. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until it starts bubbling and smelling slightly nutty, which ensures your sauce will thicken properly without tasting floury.

Step 7: Add Evaporated Milk and Cream

Pour in the evaporated milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently. Then add the heavy cream, remaining seasoning, and Dijon mustard, whisking until the sauce is silky, smooth, and luxuriously thickened. This mixture is the heart of Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe’s decadence.

Step 8: Melt in the Cheese

Add half your shredded cheese to the skillet in small handfuls, stirring continuously until each addition is perfectly melted and incorporated. This slow melting process prevents clumps and creates that irresistible creamy sauce.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Fold the cooked pasta into the cheesy sauce, making sure every piece is generously coated. The pasta shape helps hold on to the sauce, guaranteeing creamy bites with every forkful.

Step 10: Layer the Mac and Cheese

Transfer half the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a third of the remaining cheese over that layer for melty pockets of extra gooeyness. Add the rest of the pasta mixture, then evenly top with the last of the cheese for a beautifully cheesy crust.

Step 11: Bake and Broil for Perfection

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle and the cheese melt together beautifully. Finish with a 1 to 2-minute broil to develop a golden, bubbly, irresistible top layer that’s signature to this dish’s appeal.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot mac and cheese to add a burst of color, freshness, and a slight herbal note that balances all that richness.

How to Serve Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Add a scattering of vibrant fresh parsley or even a pinch of smoked paprika on top for a lovely contrasting color and aroma. If you like a little crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits make excellent toppings, too.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy, luscious mac and cheese with something crisp and refreshing like a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables that can cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, grilled chicken or pork chops complement the flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it family-style in a large baking dish, inviting everyone to dig in, or portion it into individual ramekins with a sprinkle of cheese on top and broil until each has its own bubbly crust. Another idea is to add mix-ins like caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms between the layers for a gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the mac and cheese completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days without losing that creamy texture and bold flavor that makes Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe so irresistible.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the sauce luxurious and silky. A quick broil at the end can revive a crispy top.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cavatappi’s spiral shape hugs the sauce wonderfully, you can use elbow macaroni, shells, or even penne. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy after baking.

Is there a substitute for evaporated milk?

If you don’t have evaporated milk, a mix of regular milk and a little heavy cream can work, but keep in mind the unique thickness of evaporated milk adds extra richness and helps thicken the sauce.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed shrimp fold in beautifully to turn this mac and cheese into a more substantial meal. Add them just before layering and baking.

How do I make the recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce safely. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian if you use cheese made without animal rennet, which is readily available. Simply check your cheese labels or buy from a trusted source.

Final Thoughts

Tini’s Creamy Three-Cheese Cavatappi Mac and Cheese Recipe is the kind of dish that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s perfect for when you want an indulgent yet comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this creamy, cheesy celebration of pasta perfection.

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