If you love comfort food that wraps you up like a warm hug, then you are absolutely going to adore Tini’s Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe. This dish takes the classic mac and cheese to new heights by combining three rich cheeses—mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar—with a velvety sauce made with heavy cream and evaporated milk, all baked to golden bubbly perfection. Every bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and a hint of smoky paprika, creating a homemade baked mac and cheese that’s irresistibly flavorful and definitely worth the extra effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with uncooked small spiral pasta sitting on a white marbled surface. Around it are several ingredients: a small white bowl with three cubes of butter in the top left, nearby a white container with salt. Above the pasta, a wooden board holds three blocks of cheese in different colors—yellow, off-white, and a marbled orange-white—with shredded cheese scattered next to them. To the right of the pasta are fresh green parsley leaves. Below parsley is a glass measuring cup filled with milk. In the bottom center, a small white bowl holds a swirled beige mustard sauce. Two glass spice jars, one with white powder and one with red powder, lie to the lower left of the pasta. A small clear dish with white flour is near the bottom left, with a round container filled with black pepper at the bottom center. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is an easy but crucial step in nailing this recipe. Each choice here ensures layers of flavor, a beautiful creamy texture, and a color that makes the dish as inviting as it tastes.

1 pound mozzarella cheese: Use a block from the deli for easier shredding and a wonderful gooey stretch in the final dish.
1 pound Colby Jack cheese: Adds a mild complexity and melts beautifully to blend with the other cheeses.
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese: Yellow cheddar is preferred for its bold flavor and gorgeous color.
1 pound cavatappi pasta: The twisted shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly for every bite.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory notes without overpowering the cheese.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a delicate smoky depth that makes this baked mac and cheese truly unique.
1 teaspoon coarse salt: Essential for balancing flavors throughout the dish.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the rich cheese sauce.
3 tablespoons salted butter: Creates a luscious base for the roux and enriches the flavor.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to perfectly coat every piece of pasta.
1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk: Gives a creamy body with a slight caramelized sweetness.
2 cups heavy cream: Adds the silky richness that makes the sauce smooth and indulgent.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Brings brightness and complexity to the cheese sauce.
Fresh chopped parsley: For a fresh, colorful garnish that lifts the final presentation.

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

Step 1: Prepare and Shred the Cheeses

Start by shredding the mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses. Getting these ready early helps the cheeses melt smoothly later on. Toss half of the shredded cheese into one bowl and set aside the other half to go into the bake topping later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the cavatappi pasta in salted water until just al dente. The twists and curves of cavatappi are perfect for catching that dreamy cheese sauce. Once cooked, drain and set aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

In a small prep bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and black pepper. This blend is the secret behind the cozy flavor layers we all love in baked mac and cheese.

Step 4: Make the Roux and Start the Sauce

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and stir in half the seasoning mix. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling and fragrant, forming the roux that will thicken the sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Thicken

Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk, ensuring no lumps form. When the sauce begins to thicken and bubble, pour in the heavy cream along with the remaining seasonings and Dijon mustard. Continue whisking until the sauce becomes luxuriously thick and creamy.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese into the Sauce

Add half of the shredded cheese to the sauce a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and smooth. This is where the magic really happens—the sauce becomes rich and cheesy with a velvety texture.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Fold the cooked pasta gently into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is coated generously. This creamy mixture is the heart of Tini’s Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Step 8: Layer and Bake

Transfer half of the cheesy pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a third of the remaining cheese over it, then layer with the rest of the mac and cheese and finish by topping with the last of the shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly, then broil for 1 to 2 minutes to get that irresistible golden crust.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now it’s ready to delight everyone at your table!

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

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with a golden brown baked macaroni and cheese. The top layer is bubbly and melted cheese with small browned spots scattered all over, giving it a slightly crispy texture. The cheese looks rich and creamy with a smooth, melted surface that covers the elbow macaroni pasta beneath. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a wooden board and light brown cloth underneath it. There is a wooden spoon on the left and salt and pepper shakers on the right. The overall look is warm and inviting, with the cheese's orange and yellow tones standing out against the white baking dish and marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also sprinkle crispy breadcrumbs for some crunch or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky undertones. These simple touches make serving this dish feel extra-special.

Side Dishes

This rich, comforting mac and cheese pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads or steamed green vegetables to balance out the decadence. Roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed green beans work wonderfully alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins or hollowed-out mini pumpkins for fall gatherings. You can also mix in cooked bacon bits or caramelized onions before baking for an extra burst of flavor using Tini’s Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe as your base.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the mac and cheese cool completely before covering it tightly and refrigerating. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and tasty next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its ooey-gooey charm.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 325°F, loosely covered with foil to prevent drying, until heated through. For quicker reheating, use the microwave and stir occasionally to redistribute the sauce evenly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for Tini’s Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While cavatappi works perfectly for catching sauce, elbow macaroni or shells also make great choices. Just make sure to cook them al dente and adjust baking time slightly if needed.

What if I don’t have evaporated milk on hand?

You can substitute an equal amount of whole milk or a mixture of milk and cream, though evaporated milk adds a unique richness that enhances the sauce’s depth of flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian as it relies on cheese and dairy, so it’s perfect for meat-free meals. Just double-check that your cheese doesn’t contain animal rennet if you’re strictly vegetarian.

How can I make the top extra crispy?

For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking. Broil for a minute or two at the end to get a golden, crispy crust.

Is there a way to lighten this recipe?

To lighten it up, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half and reduce the butter slightly. However, keep in mind that the recipe shines best with its rich, creamy textures.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the warmth and comfort that Tini’s Three-Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe brings to the table. It’s a dish that invites smiles, seconds, and maybe even thirds with its perfect blend of cheesiness and creamy goodness. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck crowd-pleaser, I encourage you to try this recipe—it’s destined to become one of your all-time favorites.