Go Back
+ servings
Tuscan Mac and Cheese

Creamy Tuscan Mac and Cheese That Elevates Comfort Food

This Creamy Tuscan Mac and Cheese combines rich flavors with fresh ingredients for a perfect comfort dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Elbow Macaroni Feel free to swap with your favorite pasta shape.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works as well.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk gives an extra creamy finish.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Opt for low-moisture mozzarella for better melting.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Try different ages of cheddar for unique tastes.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can substitute for a sharper twist.
For the Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Fresh Spinach Can use frozen spinach if thawed and drained.
  • ½ cup Sundried Tomatoes Choose oil-packed for a richer flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Or use 2 cloves of fresh minced garlic.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Substitute with a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme.
  • Salt Use cautiously if adding salty sundried tomatoes or butter.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper Use to taste.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
  3. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Keep the heat at medium and stir consistently for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until all cheeses melt smoothly into the sauce.
  5. Mix in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach and ½ cup of chopped sundried tomatoes.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, gently stirring until each macaroni is coated. Ensure all pasta is evenly mixed.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top, or serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Always opt for fresh spinach and use whole milk for a creamier texture. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!