Italian Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and this Italian version is our family's new favorite. Rich, creamy mac & cheese combined with Italian seasonings in a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone is sure to love!

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Prep Time: 30

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 50

Servings:

Calories: 314kcal

Author: Cathy Trochelman

Ingredients

1/2 c. salted butter
1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. garlic salt
1 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. pepper
5 c. whole milk
8 oz. shredded Mozzarella cheese
8 oz. shredded Parmesan cheese
8 oz. cream cheese
1 lb. macaroni noodles
1 package Farm Rich Mozzarella Bites

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375° F.
Cook the noodles according to package instructions.
Make the roux by combining melted butter and flour in a large saucepan. Cook, stirring, 5-6 minutes until thickened.
Make the cheese sauce by adding seasonings and milk and cooking until thick and bubbly. Stir in the cheese.
Add the cooked noodles and stir until combined.
Transfer to a 9x13 inch casserole dish.
Bake the mac & cheese for 10 minutes, then add Mozzarella Bites to the oven (on a separate baking sheet) and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes.
Remove from oven; top mac & cheese with baked Mozzarella Bites. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Recipe variations

Stir in 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken or cooked, crumbled Italian sausage
Use any combination of Italian cheese, including Mozzarella, Provolone, Fontina, Parmesan, or Asiago
Substitute dried oregano or basil for the Italian seasoning
Omit Italian seasoning and add 1/2 c. prepared pesto
Top with bruschetta or diced tomatoes
Serve with marinara sauce

Nutrition