Description

This Best Viral TikTok Mac And Cheese Recipe is a creamy, cheesy delight that combines sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with tender elbow macaroni in a rich homemade cheese sauce. Finished under the broiler for a golden, crispy top, this crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for comfort food cravings and simple family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

1 pound (1 lb) elbow macaroni

Cheese Mix

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

Dairy & Sauce

3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons (4 tbsp) butter

Seasoning & Thickener

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

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: 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.
Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes.
Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Incorporate Cheeses: Reduce heat to low. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring gently until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated thoroughly.
Broil for a Crispy Top: Transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe baking dish. Broil on high at 450°F (232°C) for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a golden and crispy top without burning.

Notes

For extra creaminess, use full-fat dairy as specified.
Stir constantly while making the roux and sauce to avoid lumps.
Monitor the broiler closely to prevent the topping from burning.
This recipe can be made ahead and reheated; add a splash of milk when reheating if sauce thickens too much.
Customize with breadcrumbs or extra cheeses on top before broiling for a different texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Creamy Mac and Cheese, Viral TikTok Recipe, Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food