Tuscan Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Tuscan Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. Imagine creamy, cheesy pasta infused with the rich flavors of Tuscany, where every bite transports you to the sun-kissed hills of Italy. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a touch of Italian heritage to your dining table. The combination of al dente pasta, velvety cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

People adore Tuscan Mac and Cheese for its unique blend of flavors and the convenience it offers. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, as it can be prepared in no time and is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce and hints of garlic and spinach, this recipe elevates the traditional mac and cheese experience, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that celebrates the essence of Tuscan cuisine!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadcrumbs)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water to enhance the pasta’s flavor. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-9 minutes. 3. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. I like to rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Making the Cheese Sauce

4. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. I love the smell of butter melting; it sets the stage for a delicious sauce! 5. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This step is crucial as it helps thicken the sauce. 6. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. This helps to avoid any lumps in the sauce. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes. 7. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. 8. Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. I usually take my time with this step to ensure the cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce is velvety.

Incorporating the Vegetables

9. Once the cheese sauce is ready, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined. The sun-dried tomatoes add a lovely tangy flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

10. Now, it’s time to combine the pasta with the cheese sauce. Add the drained pasta to the saucepan and gently fold it into the sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious cheese sauce. I find that using a spatula works best for this step. 11. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes, I like to add a pinch more salt or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Preparing the Breadcrumb Topping

12. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil. This will help the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely in the oven. I usually use my hands to mix it well, ensuring that all the breadcrumbs are coated. 13. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare to bake the mac and cheese.

Baking the Mac and Cheese

14. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. 15. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This will create a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta underneath. 16. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. I love to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Tuscan Mac and Cheese is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with personality. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner, a potluck favorite, or a delightful side dish at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. For a fun twist, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses—try a blend of mozzarella and fontina for a gooey texture or sprinkle some crispy pancetta on top for a savory crunch. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Tuscan Mac and Cheese a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped up this delicious dish, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you discover along the way. Happy cooking! Print