Mac and cheese lovers, rejoice! The latest viral sensation, Tennis Mac and Cheese has taken over the internet with its ultra-cheesy, creamy, and perfectly baked goodness. This isn’t your average mac and cheese—this recipe brings a rich roux-based cheese sauce, the best pasta choice, and a golden, bubbly top that will make you crave seconds.
If you’re a fan of comforting and cheesy dishes, you might also enjoy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken, which pairs beautifully with this pasta dish.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from the science of cheese melting to a step-by-step recipe that guarantees success. If you’re wondering what makes the best pasta for cheese sauce, check out Serious Eats’ guide to learn why cavatappi is the ultimate choice.
Table of Contents
- What is Tennis Mac and Cheese?
- Why Freshly Grated Cheese is Essential
- Best Cheese Combinations for Maximum Creaminess
- Step-by-Step Recipe with Ingredients Table
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Best Pairings & Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
What is Tennis Mac and Cheese?
Despite its name, Tennis Mac and Cheese has nothing to do with the sport. Instead, it’s a TikTok-famous recipe that stands out for its:
- Velvety, rich cheese sauce made with a roux
- Cavatappi pasta—the ideal shape for holding sauce
- Triple cheese blend for maximum creaminess
- Baked finish that gives a golden, crispy top
This dish has gone viral because it’s the perfect balance of creamy and crispy, making it the ultimate upgrade from classic mac and cheese.
Why Freshly Grated Cheese is Essential
The biggest mistake people make when preparing mac and cheese? Using pre-shredded cheese! Here’s why you should always grate your own:
✅ Prevents grainy texture – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that stop it from melting smoothly.
✅ Better flavour – Freshly grated cheese melts into a silky, creamy sauce.
✅ Smoother consistency – No clumps, just perfectly gooey cheese.
If you want to understand why some cheeses melt better than others, read The Science of Melting Cheese for a deep dive into the chemistry behind it.
Best Cheese Combinations for Maximum Creaminess
For the best texture and flavour, use a blend of:
- Mozzarella – For that gooey, stretchy melt
- Colby Jack – Adds a mild, creamy taste
- Sharp Cheddar – Provides a bold, tangy depth
This combination creates layers of flavour while ensuring creaminess and reliability.
Step-by-Step Recipe with Ingredients Table
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cavatappi pasta | 1 lb |
| Mozzarella cheese, grated | 16 oz |
| Colby Jack cheese, grated | 16 oz |
| Sharp Cheddar cheese, grated | 8 oz |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Butter | 3 tbsp |
| Flour | 3 tbsp |
| Evaporated milk | 12 oz can |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Boil the pasta until al dente, then drain and set it aside.
- Prepare the roux:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste.
- Add evaporated milk and whisk until thickened.
- Pour in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and seasonings.
- Melt the cheese: Gradually add half of the cheese blend, stirring until smooth.
- Combine with pasta: Stir cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Layer and bake:
- Spread half of the mac and cheese in the baking dish.
- Add a layer of the remaining shredded cheese.
- Repeat layers.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 2 minutes for a golden top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking the pasta – Slightly undercooked it to prevent mushiness.
❌ Skipping the roux – This is key to a smooth, creamy texture.
❌ Not layering cheese – Layering gives the dish its iconic, cheesy crust.
If you’re looking for another creamy dish, try Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta for an equally indulgent experience.
Best Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Perfect Side Dishes
- Garlic Sauce for Pizza – Drizzle this over your mac and cheese for extra flavour.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts – The perfect balance to the rich cheese sauce.
- Grilled Chicken – A great protein boost to round out the meal.
Drink Pairings
- Crisp Chardonnay – The acidity cuts through the richness.
- Sparkling Lemonade – Refreshing and balances the creaminess.
FAQs
Why is it called Tennis Mac and Cheese?
It’s a TikTok-driven trend—no real connection to tennis, but the name stuck!
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! But cavatappi is the best for holding sauce.
How do I keep mac and cheese from drying out?
- Use enough sauce to coat the pasta generously.
- Cover while baking for the first 20 minutes.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch in the roux.
Tennis Mac and Cheese isn’t just a viral sensation—it’s the ultimate comfort food experience! With its creamy, cheesy texture, perfect pasta choice, and rich layers of flavour, this dish is a must-try.
If you love cheesy dishes, check out Bagels with Cream Cheese for another delicious bite!
Now, grab your ingredients and get cooking!