TikTok's Viral Mac & Cheese Recipe by Tineke Younger

Indulging in the timeless comfort of mac and cheese is practically a universal joy in my household, and I'm sure many can relate to that sentiment. As an avid mac and cheese enthusiast, I must confess that not all renditions of this beloved dish are created equal. There's an art to it, and not everyone can master the craft. However, one culinary wizard who has certainly earned her stripes is TikTok influencer and author of "Cooking for my Boyfriend," Tineke Younger. In a recent TikTok video that took the internet by storm, Younger graciously unveils her go-to mac and cheese recipe for the holiday season, accumulating millions of views in the process.

What sets Younger's baked version apart is a surprising twist, an ingredient that instantly piqued my curiosity and convinced me to give her mac and cheese a shot.

Crafting the Viral TikTok Mac and Cheese

Younger's first piece of advice is to opt for corkscrew pasta, citing its ability to encapsulate the creamy goodness within each noodle. She also advocates for shredding your own cheese rather than relying on pre-shredded varieties, specifying a blend of mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar.

1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil the pasta until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, then set it aside for later.

2. Build the Flavor Base: While the pasta is cooking, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Whisk until well combined, then introduce 3 tablespoons of flour, whisking diligently to eliminate any flour clumps.

3. Thicken the Sauce: As the sauce starts to thicken, incorporate a can of evaporated milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens further. Pour in two cups of heavy cream, seasoning the sauce with additional pinches of your chosen spices and a tablespoon of Dijon mustard.

4. Cheese Fusion: Gradually add half of the shredded cheese mix to the sauce, allowing each addition to melt fully before incorporating more. Once the cheese sauce is velvety smooth, combine it with the cooked pasta.

5. Layer and Bake: In a prepared baking dish, create a base layer of mac and cheese, generously topping it with the remaining shredded cheese mix. Repeat the process, ensuring an even distribution, and finish with a final layer of shredded cheese.

6. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the dish for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top layer of cheese achieves a tantalizing melt. For an extra crispy top, consider broiling the mac and cheese during the last couple of minutes. Once done, let it cool slightly, garnish with chopped chives, and serve immediately.

Embrace the magic of TikTok's viral mac and cheese recipe, and treat yourself to a culinary masterpiece that transcends the ordinary.