Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of a creamy, ultra-cheesy pasta that pulls in those unmistakable Italian flavors, then this Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender pasta nestled in a velvety sauce packed with a blend of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and ricotta, all finished with a golden breadcrumb topping and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish takes the comfort of classic mac and cheese and gives it a full Italian makeover, creating a meal that’s both heartwarming and show-stopping. You’ll want to make it for weeknight dinners and special gatherings alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is how just a handful of well-chosen ingredients work together to create something truly luxurious. Every component has a purpose, building layers of flavor, creaminess, and a touch of crunch that make each bite unforgettable.
- Elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta (12 oz): These shapes hold the sauce perfectly, offering just the right texture for cheesy bakes.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Provides richness and is the base for your silky roux.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce for that luscious, creamy texture.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Delivers a smooth, mellow base that balances the cheese.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds extra decadence and body to the sauce.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces subtle, savory depth to every bite.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses classic herbs like oregano and basil for that signature Italian flair.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Offers a gentle heat that wakes up the palate.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts into strings of gooey goodness.
- Shredded provolone cheese (1 cup): Brings a buttery, slightly sharp character to the sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds salty, nutty complexity that ties everything together.
- Ricotta cheese (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce extra creamy and gives it a uniquely Italian twist.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Create a crisp, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps toast the breadcrumbs and infuses a hint of peppery richness.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Brings color and a burst of freshness to the finished dish.
How to Make Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your elbow macaroni or cavatappi and cook until just al dente – you want the pasta to have a little bite since it’ll cook more in the oven. Once ready, drain and set aside. This step ensures the noodles soak up all the cheesy sauce without turning mushy.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for a minute or two to make a smooth roux; this will thicken your sauce and keep it lump-free. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring all the while until the sauce begins to thicken, which takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick), salt, and black pepper to taste. The aroma at this stage will make you hungry!
Step 3: Add the Cheeses
Once your sauce is thick and silky, take it off the heat. Now comes the magic! Stir in the shredded mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses. Keep mixing until everything melts together in a glorious, smooth cheese sauce. Finally, fold in the ricotta cheese for extra creaminess – it’s the secret that really sets this Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe apart.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and gently mix until each piece is coated in that dreamy, cheesy goodness. Make sure the sauce seeps into every nook and cranny of the pasta – you want maximum flavor in every forkful.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in your cheesy pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly. In a small bowl, toss the Italian-style breadcrumbs with olive oil until they’re lightly moistened. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta. This will bake up into a golden, crispy blanket that’s impossible to resist.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your dish in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen and draw everyone to the table! Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking so the sauce can settle, making it easier to serve.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top. Not only does this add vibrant color, but it also brings a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese. Now, dig in and enjoy!
How to Serve Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A finishing touch of fresh basil or parsley does wonders for both flavor and presentation. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a little extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil just before serving can take this Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe over the top. The contrast of green herbs against the golden crust is absolutely beautiful!
Side Dishes
Serve this cheesy masterpiece with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or pair it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. If you’re going all out, warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic companion that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party or family gathering; everyone loves their own mini Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe! You can also serve it as a side alongside your favorite Italian main courses, or turn it into a show-stopping centerpiece by topping with extra herbs and a dusting of chili flakes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for easy lunches or speedy dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well. Simply cool the baked macaroni and cheese, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking, then add the breadcrumb topping right before popping it in the oven.
Reheating
To reheat, place desired portions in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot and bubbly (about 20 minutes). You can also microwave individual servings, though the breadcrumb topping will be less crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or cavatappi are classic choices for this Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, you can use penne, fusilli, or any short, sturdy pasta you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente for best results.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
If you’d like a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. The dish will still be creamy and satisfying, but with a little less richness.
Can I add protein or vegetables?
Definitely! Cooked Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables like spinach or zucchini can be folded into the pasta before baking. These additions make the Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe even heartier and more flavorful.
What’s the best cheese substitute if I can’t find provolone?
If provolone isn’t available, try fontina or asiago for a bolder, nuttier flavor. Even a little extra mozzarella will work in a pinch; just be sure to keep the total cheese amount the same for the perfect cheese-to-pasta ratio.
How do I get a really crispy breadcrumb topping?
To guarantee a golden, crunchy top, mix the breadcrumbs thoroughly with olive oil and consider broiling the dish for a minute or two at the end of baking. Just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing a bubbling dish of Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe with friends or family. It’s the ultimate comfort food with an Italian twist – easy enough for a cozy night in, yet impressive enough for guests. Give it a try and watch it disappear in record time!
Print
Italian Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Macaroni and Cheese recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic comfort dish, featuring a creamy blend of mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses with a touch of Italian herbs and spices. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping and garnished with fresh basil or parsley, it’s a perfect main course for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
Topping
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and cook pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux without browning.
- Prepare cheese sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Add cheeses: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese to add creamy texture.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until all noodles are evenly coated.
- Assemble in baking dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs with olive oil, mixing until coated. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the pasta.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix in cooked Italian sausage or sautéed mushrooms before baking.
- You can substitute fontina or asiago cheese for a bolder flavor.
- Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free if needed.
- The dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
