Description
Creamy Tuscan Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of classic macaroni and cheese and the bold, sun-dried tomato flavors of Tuscan cuisine. This indulgent dish takes the familiar creaminess of mac and cheese and elevates it with savory sun-dried tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and nutrient-packed spinach.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounce elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 4 cup fresh baby spinach
Instructions
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle in the flour and cook briefly, then gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Incorporate the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce reaches desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta and fresh spinach to the skillet, gently stirring until the spinach wilts and the pasta is coated in the sauce.
- Serve warm.
Notes
For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or crumbled Italian sausage. You can also swap in other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg