Viral Mac Cheese: The Creamy Sensation You Need to Try

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Viral Mac Cheese has taken social media by storm, especially on TikTok, becoming a must-try comfort food sensation. This creamy, cheesy delight features a blend of mozzarella, Colby Jack, and sharp cheddar cheeses, combined with evaporated milk and heavy cream, creating a velvety sauce over cavatappi pasta. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into this easy viral macaroni and cheese recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Viral Mac Cheese

This dish is not just any mac and cheese; it’s a popular mac and cheese recipe that brings joy to the table. Here’s why:

Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Quick to prepare, making it a quick viral mac and cheese meal.
Kid-friendly, perfect for picky eaters.
Versatile with various toppings to suit every palate.
Ideal for meal prep and easy to store.
Great for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

This trendy mac cheese dish will surely become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients for Viral Mac Cheese

Gather these items:

1 Lb Cavatappi pasta (or elbow macaroni)
1 Lb Mozzarella (16 OZ shredded)
1 Lb Colby Jack (16 OZ shredded)
1/2 Lb Sharp cheddar (8 OZ shredded)
12 Ounces Evaporated milk (1 Can)
2 Cups Heavy whipping cream
3 Tablespoons Unsalted butter
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon White pepper
1 teaspoon Garlic powder
1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 Tablespoons All purpose flour

How to Make Viral Mac Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil the cavatappi pasta in salted water according to package instructions, approximately 7 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: In a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously until a smooth paste forms.
Step 3: Slowly incorporate the evaporated milk while whisking. Continue whisking until the sauce begins to bubble, indicating it’s starting to thicken.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium-low and gradually add the heavy whipping cream while whisking continuously. Let the sauce cook gently.
Step 5: Combine all the shredded cheeses in a bowl and divide into two equal portions. Start by adding a handful of cheese to the sauce and whisk vigorously until melted and smooth before adding more. Repeat until all the first half of the cheese is fully incorporated. This process takes about 20 minutes to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce and fully cooked flour.
Step 6: Stir in salt, white pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard to the cheese sauce, blending all flavors thoroughly.
Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat all the noodles evenly.
Step 8: Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the oven rack in the center. In a 9×13 baking dish, spread half of the cheese-coated pasta. Sprinkle half of the remaining shredded cheese on top. Add the rest of the pasta and top with the remaining cheese.
Step 9: Bake for about 20 minutes at 375°F until the cheese on top has melted and starts to turn golden brown.
Step 10: For an extra golden and slightly crisp top, broil on low for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 11: Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Viral Mac Cheese

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for holiday meals or family dinners.
Adjust cheese types based on preference for a unique twist.
Let it rest before serving for the best texture.
For added flavor, consider adding some cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables.

Best Ways to Serve Viral Mac Cheese

Here are some serving ideas:

Top with crispy breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside grilled chicken or veggies for a complete dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Viral Mac Cheese

To store your leftover viral macaroni and cheese, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick meal prep solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Viral Mac Cheese

What’s the secret to perfect Viral Mac Cheese?

The secret lies in the cheese sauce! Use a blend of cheeses for a complex flavor and ensure you whisk continuously to achieve the perfect creamy consistency. This is crucial for any macaroni cheese sensation.

Can I make Viral Mac Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve for a fresh and warm meal that retains its delicious taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Viral Mac Cheese?

To avoid clumping, make sure to whisk the cheese into the sauce gradually. Also, don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold its shape and texture during baking.

Variations of Viral Mac Cheese You Can Try

Explore these fun twists:

Vegetarian viral mac and cheese: Swap in your favorite veggies like spinach or broccoli.
Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Gourmet touch: Incorporate truffle oil or lobster for an upscale twist.

Viral Mac Cheese: The Creamy Sensation You Need to Try - Viral Mac Cheese - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Apple Pie Baked Oats or S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe.

Viral Mac Cheese: The Creamy Sensation You Need to Try - Viral Mac Cheese - additional detail

For a deeper understanding of cheese sauces, you can refer to this cheese sauce guide.

To learn more about the history of macaroni and cheese, visit Food Timeline.