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Creamy Tuscan Mac and Cheese - featured image

Creamy Tuscan Mac & Cheese

  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x

Description

This Creamy Tuscan Mac & Cheese is a holiday-worthy side dish featuring a luscious cheese sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach for a Tuscan twist. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups dry)
  • Salt (for pasta water and to taste)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed & drained)
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions (usually 6-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan or deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste and smells slightly nutty.
  5. Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking to avoid lumps, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 4-5 minutes).
  6. Stir in Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Lower the heat. Add mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk.
  8. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Let spinach wilt into the sauce, about 1 minute.
  9. Add drained macaroni to the sauce and stir gently until evenly coated.
  10. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
  11. If using, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
  12. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  13. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Undercook pasta slightly to prevent mushiness. Freshly grate cheese for the smoothest sauce. Customize with extra veggies, cooked chicken, or gluten-free/dairy-free swaps as needed. Can be assembled ahead and baked before serving. Leftovers reheat best in the oven with a splash of milk.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 1 cup
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 4
  • Sodium: 520
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 9
  • Carbohydrates: 34
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 14

Keywords: mac and cheese, tuscan, holiday side dish, creamy, baked pasta, cheese, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, comfort food, Italian-inspired, Thanksgiving, Christmas, vegetarian option

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Find it online: https://zestyum.com/creamy-tuscan-mac-and-cheese-easy-holiday-side-dish-recipe/