Easy Italian Mac
Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with Italian-inspired flavors, Easy Italian Mac transforms classic comfort food into a gourmet weeknight delight! This one-pan recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a luscious tomato-infused cream sauce, finished with gooey mozzarella, savory Parmesan, and a fragrant touch of fresh basil. A hint of garlic and optional red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, elevating this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy pasta recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone craving a hearty, satisfying meal. Serve it as a main dish or pair it with a crisp green salad for an irresistible Italian feast!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz Elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 0.5 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 14 oz Canned diced tomatoes
- 0.75 cup Heavy cream
- 1.5 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the pasta and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Easy Italian Mac!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3096 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 154.6 g | 198% | |
| Saturated Fat | 72.3 g | 362% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 348 mg | 116% | |
| Sodium | 4771 mg | 207% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 285.9 g | 104% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.7 g | 78% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.9 g | ||
| Protein | 112.3 g | 225% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1848 mg | 142% | |
| Iron | 17.6 mg | 98% | |
| Potassium | 953 mg | 20% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
