Description
This creamy Italian Mac and Cheese combines tender penne pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce infused with Italian seasoning, Parmesan, and a hint of red pepper flakes, making it a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
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, rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process, and 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 taste and create a roux base.
- Finish Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheese mixture and freshly grated Parmesan until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Add Pasta: Add the drained penne to the cheese sauce, tossing well to coat all the pasta evenly. Let it cook together for another minute so the pasta absorbs some sauce flavor.
- Garnish & Serve: Transfer the Italian mac and cheese to a serving bowl or plates. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes as garnish and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella and provolone for a more complex flavor.
- Rinsing the pasta after cooking stops the cooking process and prevents overcooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for more or less heat.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
