Best Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This viral TikTok mac and cheese recipe is a rich and creamy delight that combines three cheeses for maximum flavor. It’s simple to make and perfect for a comforting meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, which usually takes 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 60 seconds to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Step 3: Slowly add the milk and heavy cream to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir gently until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Step 6: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well coated.
7. Step 7: For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish and broil at 450°F for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor.
• Substitute smoked paprika with cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
• For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before broiling.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese sauce and cooked pasta separately, then combine and broil right before serving for best results.

What can I use if I don’t have all three cheeses?

If you don’t have all three, cheddar alone works well, or you can mix cheddar with any melting cheese you have, like Monterey Jack or Gouda.

Best Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 136 reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

This Best Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic that has taken social media by storm. Combining a rich blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with a luscious cream-based sauce, it offers a decadent twist on traditional mac and cheese. With a golden, crispy broiled top, this dish perfectly balances creamy and crunchy textures, making it irresistible for cheese lovers and perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 1 pound (1 lb) elbow macaroni
• Salt to taste (for boiling water)

Cheese Blend

• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce

• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons (4 tbsp) butter
• 2 tablespoons (2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (1 tsp) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (1 tsp) onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (1/2 tsp) smoked paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over moderate heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously for about 60 seconds to eliminate the raw flour taste, forming a smooth paste.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base: Slowly pour the whole milk and heavy cream into the roux while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to simmer the mixture until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
5. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses to the sauce. Stir gently until all the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni into the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated for maximum creaminess.
7. Broil for a Crispy Top: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish. Place under the broiler at 450°F (232°C) for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to achieve a golden, crispy top without burning.

Notes

• Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melt and texture.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt, since cheese and broth may contain sodium.
• Broiling time can vary based on your oven; watch closely to avoid burning.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before broiling.
• This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
• Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave but may need additional milk to restore creaminess.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: TikTok mac and cheese recipe, creamy mac and cheese, best mac and cheese, viral mac and cheese, cheese sauce, easy comfort food