Description
A delicious twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella for a creamy and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, cherry tomatoes, and basil in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes.
- Can substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Fresh mozzarella can be used for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Baked Caprese Mac and Cheese, creamy mac and cheese, Italian mac and cheese, baked pasta dish