Description
A creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with a Tuscan twist, featuring bold Italian seasonings, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) elbow macaroni or shell pasta
- 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus 1/4 cup (25g) for topping
- 1/2 cup (75g) chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 tablespoons (60g) butter
- 4 tablespoons (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking to avoid lumps.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan and breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor. Don’t overcook the pasta as it will cook further in the oven. Add a splash of milk if the sauce gets too thick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 18
Keywords: Tuscan mac and cheese, Italian comfort food, cheesy pasta, baked mac and cheese