Description
Creamy Tuscan Mac and Cheese is a dish that combines the irresistible creaminess of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of Tuscan cuisine. This recipe is a true comfort food masterpiece, perfect for satisfying your cravings and bringing a touch of Italian flair to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 ounce pasta, such as elbow macaroni or shells
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cup baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion (if using), and cook until softened.
3. 3. Build the Sauce: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the flour and cook briefly, then stir in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
4. 4. Add the Cheese: Mix in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
5. 5. Finish: Add the spinach and cooked pasta, then stir until the spinach wilts and the pasta is fully coated.
6. 6. Serve: Serve the Creamy Tuscan Mac and Cheese warm, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Notes
To elevate your Creamy Tuscan Mac and Cheese to new heights, consider these helpful tips:
– Pasta Shape: While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, shells or other small, ridged pasta shapes can also work well.
– Pasta Doneness: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce as it bakes or sits.
– Creamy Sauce: Gradually add the milk or cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
– Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a protein-packed twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg