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Italian Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 77 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 23 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Italian Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, cheesy twist on the classic comfort food by incorporating Italian seasonings and a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses. The penne pasta is cooked al dente and combined with a rich, smooth cheese sauce flavored with Italian herbs and a touch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Perfect for a hearty family meal, this dish delivers familiar comfort with an Italian flair in just under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound penne

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 cups shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, provolone, or a mix)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta, rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside.
  2. Make Sauce: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the all-purpose flour and Italian seasoning, whisking continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux base.
  3. Finish Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese mixture and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  4. Add Pasta: Add the drained penne to the cheese sauce and toss well to thoroughly coat the pasta. Allow it to cook together for another minute so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce’s flavors.
  5. Garnish & Serve: Transfer the Italian mac and cheese to a serving bowl or individual plates, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and serve hot immediately.

Notes

  • Use a mixture of cheeses like mozzarella and provolone for a mellower flavor or add sharp cheddar for extra tang.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • To ensure a smooth sauce, add milk gradually while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  • Rinsing pasta with cold water stops further cooking and helps prevent the mac and cheese from becoming mushy.
  • Leftovers can be reheated on the stove with a little milk added to restore creaminess.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/italian-mac-and-cheese-recipe/