Viral Comfort Food Mac and Cheese Recipe 🥣

There’s nothing quite like a bubbling, cheesy dish of mac and cheese fresh from the oven. This version takes all the viral hype from TikTok and gives it a cozy, homemade twist. With a creamy sauce, loads of gooey cheese, and a golden baked top, this recipe is guaranteed to become your family’s new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pasta (cavatappi or elbow works best)

• 1 lb mozzarella cheese, shredded (make it easier with a rotary cheese grater)

• 1 lb colby jack cheese, shredded

• ½ lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 3 tbsp flour

• 16 oz evaporated milk

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or less, to taste)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste.

3. Build the sauce: Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk and whole milk until smooth. Add the chicken bouillon, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.

4. Add the cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in mozzarella, colby jack, and sharp cheddar a handful at a time until melted and creamy.

5. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.

6. Bake (optional but recommended): Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with extra shredded cheese, and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.

Tips & Variations

• For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a little butter and parmesan and sprinkle on before baking.

• Add cooked bacon or rotisserie chicken for a “loaded” mac and cheese.

• Want extra spice? Swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder or add a dash of cayenne.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich and creamy without being overly heavy. Using whole milk instead of heavy cream keeps it smooth and luscious but still approachable for an everyday dinner or potluck favorite.

Trust me, one bite and you’ll see why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your comfort food rotation.

🛒 Kitchen Resources for This Recipe

Want to make this creamy mac and cheese even easier? Here are some kitchen tools and pantry staples I recommend:

• Cavatappi Pasta

• Glass Baking Dish (3-qt)

• Rotary Cheese Grater – Will make your life SO MUCH EASIER! 😂

• Smoked Paprika

• Evaporated Milk

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