Tuscan Mac N Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, Tuscan Mac N Cheese takes comfort food to an entirely new level. This decadent recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with a luxurious three-cheese sauce made from Parmesan, mozzarella, and white cheddar, bringing rich, savory depth to every bite. Elevated with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and sautéed spinach, it captures the essence of Tuscan cuisine in an irresistible baked dish. Topped with golden, bubbling mozzarella, this mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or as a flavorful side dish. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a quick yet impressive meal that will have everyone craving seconds.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz Elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 0.25 cup All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Whole milk
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup White cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 3 cups Spinach, fresh
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.25 tsp Nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Gradually stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and white cheddar cheeses, reserving a handful of mozzarella for topping later. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
Fold the sautéed spinach and sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, if using.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese over the top and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Tuscan Mac N Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
5934 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 349.8 g | 448% | |
| Saturated Fat | 172.5 g | 862% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 828 mg | 276% | |
| Sodium | 8714 mg | 379% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 460.6 g | 167% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 34.7 g | 124% | |
| Total Sugars | 71.5 g | ||
| Protein | 225.3 g | 451% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.7 mcg | 43% | |
| Calcium | 4822 mg | 371% | |
| Iron | 22.6 mg | 126% | |
| Potassium | 6720 mg | 143% | |
*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.
