# Viral Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese

> Cavatappi with mozzarella, Colby Jack and sharp cheddar. Full ingredients and step-by-step instructions from @biteswithesther.

- **Source:** [@biteswithesther on TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@biteswithesther/video/7436569145677778218)
- **Estimated total time:** 60 minutes
- **Serves:** 10
- **Category:** Main course · **Cuisine:** American
- **Mood:** Comfort Food
- **Main ingredients:** Cheddar, Cream, Pasta, Mozzarella, Butter
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-10-08
- **Canonical URL:** https://mezze-app.com/recipes/viral-thanksgiving-mac-and-cheese

## Ingredients

- 454 g cavatappi pasta
- 454 g mozzarella, freshly shredded by hand
- 454 g colby jack cheese, freshly shredded by hand
- 227 g sharp cheddar, freshly shredded by hand
- 3 g garlic powder
- 3 g onion powder
- 3 g smoked paprika
- 3 g chicken bouillon powder
- 42 g unsalted butter
- 24 g flour
- 355 ml evaporated milk
- 480 ml heavy cream
- 8 g Dijon mustard

## Method

1. **Boil the pasta** Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season the water with chicken bouillon powder for extra flavor. Add the cavatappi noodles and cook until al dente.
2. **Shred and season the cheese** Shred all of the mozzarella, colby jack and sharp cheddar by hand. Separate half of the shredded cheese into another bowl. Combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika and chicken bouillon powder.
3. **Make the cheese sauce** Melt the butter in a pan and add half of the seasoning mixture. Let the seasonings bloom for about 2 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour, mixing very well. Pour in the evaporated milk and heavy cream. Mix until everything is nice and smooth. Add the rest of the seasoning mixture and the Dijon mustard, then whisk again.
4. **Melt in the cheese** Turn the heat off. Add in all of the cheese. Stir well until you get a velvety, delicious cheese sauce. Add the cooked cavatappi noodles to the cheese sauce and mix.
5. **Layer and bake** Transfer half of the mac and cheese into your pan and spread it out. Sprinkle with half of the remaining cheese. Top with the rest of the mac and cheese. Finish off with the rest of the cheese. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes for a golden, crispy top.

## FAQ

**How long does viral thanksgiving mac and cheese take?**

The estimated total time recorded for this recipe is 60 minutes. Read the method before starting and allow for any cooling, chilling or marinating described in the steps.

**How many servings does this recipe make?**

The quantities listed are for 10 servings. The full ingredient list and instructions are included above.

**Who created this recipe?**

This recipe was shared by @biteswithesther on TikTok. Mezze transcribed the video into ingredients and steps; the original video is linked above.

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Recipe transcribed by [Mezze](https://mezze-app.com), the app that turns saved TikTok and Instagram recipes into cooked dinners.