Tuscan Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tuscan-inspired mac and cheese elevates the traditional version with a burst of Mediterranean flavor. The combination of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible balance. It’s easy to prepare, comforting yet sophisticated, and guaranteed to impress anyone at the table. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s comfort food with a gourmet touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni (or any short pasta like penne or cavatappi)
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk or half-and-half
• Garlic, minced
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Shredded Parmesan cheese
• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Fresh spinach leaves
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
4. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach to the sauce. Stir until the spinach wilts.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing until well coated.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish (optional) and sprinkle extra cheese on top.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
10. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people and takes about 35 minutes total—10 minutes for prep, 15 minutes for stovetop cooking, and 10 minutes for baking.

Variations

• Chicken Tuscan Mac and Cheese: Add grilled or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
• Bacon Lovers’ Twist: Mix in crispy bacon bits for extra smokiness and flavor.
• Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the milk with plant-based milk and use vegetarian cheese for a meat-free version.
• Extra Cheesy: Combine mozzarella, fontina, and provolone for a richer blend.
• One-Pot Version: Skip baking and serve straight from the pan for a quicker meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For longer storage, freeze up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or cavatappi works well for this recipe.

Can I skip baking the mac and cheese?

Absolutely. It tastes great right off the stove if you prefer a creamier, quicker version.

What kind of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. Drain them before adding.

Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?

Yes, heavy cream will make the sauce even richer and creamier.

Can I make Tuscan Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What cheeses melt best for this recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are ideal, but you can also use fontina or Gruyère for added depth.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage make excellent additions.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid excess moisture.

What side dishes go well with Tuscan Mac and Cheese?

It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Conclusion

Tuscan Mac and Cheese is a luxurious, flavor-packed twist on a classic comfort food favorite. The creamy cheese sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach come together for a perfect balance of richness and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish delivers warmth, elegance, and unforgettable taste in every bite.

Tuscan Mac and Cheese

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Tuscan Mac and Cheese is a creamy, Italian-inspired twist on the classic comfort dish—featuring melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and aromatic herbs for a rich and elegant meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta like penne or cavatappi)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk or half-and-half
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in milk or half-and-half, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
6. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
7. Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the sauce, stirring until the spinach wilts.
8. Fold in the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
9. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.
10. Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• For added protein, mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
• Use heavy cream for a richer sauce or plant-based milk for a lighter version.
• Skip baking for a quicker, creamier stovetop version.
• Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes provide the best flavor—drain before using.
• Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg