Name: the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk (whole or 2%); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed or dry, rehydrated); 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh minced garlic; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever craved creamy comfort, savoring a twist on a beloved classic, get ready to fall in love with the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe. This dreamy, cheese-laden pasta brings a whirl of flavor-packed magic to your table, courtesy of bold sundried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a trifecta of melty cheeses. One bite, and you’ll see why this isn’t just your average mac and cheese—it’s a delicious Italian-inspired upgrade you’ll want to share (but might secretly keep all to yourself).

the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe is in its simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each one has a starring role: from the tender pasta shapes to the lush cheeses and pops of color from spinach and sundried tomatoes—together, they create pure comfort in a dish.

Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice (12 ounces): This classic shape grabs just the right amount of cheese sauce in every delicious bite.
Butter (2 tablespoons): The backbone of the rue, it adds richness and depth to the creamy base.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Whisked into the butter, it thickens your sauce perfectly for that signature silky finish.
Milk, whole or 2% (2 cups): Choose whole for extra creaminess or 2% for a touch lighter result; either way, the sauce turns out smooth and velvety.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for stretchy, gooey appeal, bringing a mild, creamy flavor.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds tang and color, balancing the other cheeses with its bold personality.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Pops in with salty, nutty notes, giving an unmistakable Italian flair.
Fresh spinach, chopped (1 cup): A burst of green that not only boosts nutrition but brings fresh, earthy undertones.
Sundried tomatoes, chopped (½ cup): Their chewy, tangy flavor makes every forkful sing—oil-packed gives richness, but rehydrated dry ones work too.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) or fresh minced garlic (2 cloves): Choose your favorite for a gentle, slow warmth, or a sharp, fragrant kick.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): This blend rounds out the Tuscan feel, adding Mediterranean depth to the mix.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential to make all the flavors pop, never skip this finishing touch.

How to Make the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your macaroni (or pasta of choice). Cook it until just al dente, following the package directions—remember, you want it tender but with a little bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you work your cheesy magic.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Grab a sturdy saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s lovely and bubbly, stir in the flour. Cook this mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it turns a soft, golden shade—think fragrant and nutty without getting too dark. This is the base that gives your sauce its irresistible body.

Step 3: Whisk in the Milk

Slowly pour the milk into your roux, constantly whisking to prevent any lumps. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. The sauce should thicken enough that it coats the back of a spoon—patience here is key to that ultra-creamy texture you expect in the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Take the saucepan off heat and stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until everything melts into an irresistibly smooth sauce—there’s a magical moment where it goes from lumpy to luscious, and it’s so satisfying!

Step 5: Season and Add Veggies

Sprinkle in the garlic powder (or fresh garlic), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Fold in the chopped spinach and sundried tomatoes, letting the residual heat wilt the spinach just enough and get those tomatoes plump and flavorful.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Gently combine your cooked pasta with the decadent cheese sauce, tossing until every noodle is coated. Give it a taste—add a little more salt or pepper if you like. If you enjoy a bubbly, golden crust, transfer everything to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. If you just can’t wait, serve it straight from the pot for peak gooeyness!

How to Serve the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra flourish, garnish your mac and cheese with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for pop and freshness. A final dusting of Parmesan or a handful of crispy breadcrumbs gives even more texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

While the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe stands beautifully alone, it’s lovely alongside a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic or a side of roasted vegetables. Warm, crusty Italian bread is always a hit for mopping up those last cheesy bits.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for an elevated dinner party vibe, or scoop into colorful bowls for a cozy family meal. For fun, top each serving with mini mozzarella balls or a swirl of pesto—your guests will be wowed by the presentation and taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen and mellow, making it even more tempting the next day—perfect for quick lunches or busy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, simply assemble, cool completely, and store in a freezer-safe baking dish. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and bubbly. For single portions, a quick zap in the microwave with a splash of milk helps maintain that creamy consistency you crave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni clings beautifully to the creamy sauce, penne, shells, or rotini all work well. Just aim for bite-sized shapes that soak up all the cheesy goodness.

Is it okay to substitute other cheeses?

Definitely! The cheese blend is customizable—try Fontina, Gouda, or Gruyere for even more rich, melty character. Just keep proportions similar to achieve that luscious, gooey texture the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe is known for.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend and choose your favorite gluten-free pasta. The method remains the same for that comfort food result.

What’s the best way to rehydrate sundried tomatoes if they’re not oil-packed?

Simply soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes, drain, and chop. They’ll soften up perfectly and provide a lovely tangy boost to your mac and cheese.

Can I add protein to this dish?

For sure! Stir in cooked chicken, crispy pancetta, or Italian sausage before baking for a heartier meal. They pair deliciously with the Tuscan flavors of cheese and sundried tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

Few things are as inviting as a big, bubbling dish of comfort food with a Tuscan twist. I hope you give the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe a try soon—it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whether for family night or a cozy get-together, it’s bound to become a new favorite!

the Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, comforting goodness of this Ultimate Tuscan Mac and Cheese recipe. Loaded with three types of cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, it’s a flavor-packed twist on a classic favorite.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Season and Combine: Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in chopped spinach and sundried tomatoes. Combine cheese sauce with cooked pasta, mixing well.
Bake or Serve: Transfer to a baking dish if desired and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Alternatively, serve immediately.

Notes

You can customize this recipe by adding cooked chicken, bacon, or other favorite ingredients.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the mac and cheese before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian