Description
This Italian Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender al dente penne pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce infused with Italian seasoning and a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses for a flavorful twist on classic comfort food. Finished with a subtle kick from red pepper flakes, this dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 pound penne
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, provolone, or a mix)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for garnish)
Instructions
- 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 and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- 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 flavor and create a roux base.
- Finish Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese and freshly grated Parmesan until fully melted, resulting in a creamy, smooth sauce.
- Add Pasta: Add the drained penne to the cheese sauce and toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Let it cook together for another minute so the pasta absorbs some flavor from the sauce.
- Garnish & Serve: Transfer the Italian mac and cheese to a serving bowl or plate. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes as garnish and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the type and amount of shredded cheese based on your preference; a combination of mozzarella and provolone offers a great balance of meltiness and flavor.
- Rinsing pasta briefly after cooking stops the cooking process and prevents overcooking when combined with sauce.
- For an extra creamy texture, use whole milk or add a splash of cream.
- Red pepper flakes add a mild heat; adjust or omit based on your spice preference.
