Italian Mac and Cheese

This Italian Mac and Cheese elevates the classic comfort dish with a blend of four distinct Italian cheeses, creating a rich and flavorful experience. The combination of these cheeses results in a depth of taste that sets it apart from traditional mac and cheese. To enhance the dish, it’s baked to perfection and topped with crispy pancetta and golden breadcrumbs, adding a delightful crunch and texture.

This recipe promises to deliver a mouthwatering cheese pasta flavor profile that will leave you craving more. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this Italian twist on mac and cheese is sure to impress and satisfy anyone looking for a comforting yet gourmet meal.

Ingredients for Italian Mac and Cheese

Key ingredients for the Italian Mac and Cheese, along with their quantities:

• Mozzarella: 2 cups (shredded) — Essential for that iconic cheese pull, mozzarella provides a gooey texture and mild flavor.
• Provolone: 1 cup (shredded) — Adds a sharp, slightly stinky flavor to the dish. You can substitute it with Asiago for a sharper taste.
• Fontina: 1 cup (shredded) — Known for its creamy and earthy flavor, Fontina melts beautifully, enhancing the dish’s richness.
• Parmesan: 1 cup (shredded) — Adds a salty depth of flavor. While domestic Parmesan is used, feel free to use any variety you enjoy.
• Pancetta: 6 ounces (diced) — This Italian cured meat provides savory bursts of flavor. You can substitute it with guanciale but avoid bacon to maintain an authentic Italian taste.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons — Used to create a roux, which thickens the cheese sauce.
• Flour: 4 tablespoons — Combined with butter to form a roux that helps stabilize the cheese sauce.
• Milk: 3 cups — Used to create a creamy base for the cheese sauce, adding richness.
• Pasta: 1 pound (elbow macaroni or your choice) — The base of the dish, boiled to al dente before mixing with the cheese sauce.

Step by Step Directions for Making Italian Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pancetta

Start by chopping 6 ounces of pancetta into small ¼-inch squares. Place the pancetta in a cold frying pan and set the heat to medium. Cooking it slowly from a cold pan helps render the fat evenly and prevents burning. Fry the pancetta for about six minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon and let it drain on a paper towel. Set aside for later.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a separate saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the foaming subsides, add an equal amount of 4 tablespoons of flour to the pan. Use a whisk to combine the butter and flour until they form a smooth paste, known as a roux. This mixture will thicken your cheese sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

While you’re making the roux, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add salt to the water and then add 1 pound of pasta (such as elbow macaroni). Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 7-9 minutes. Once done, strain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 4: Add Milk to the Roux

Slowly pour 3 cups of milk into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring this mixture to a low simmer, stirring occasionally. This will create a creamy base for your cheese sauce.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses

Once the milk mixture is simmering, gradually stir in the cheeses: 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup of shredded provolone, 1 cup of shredded Fontina, and ½ cup of shredded Parmesan (set aside half of the Parmesan for topping). Stir until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine and Bake

Finally, add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine thoroughly. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Top with the reserved Parmesan and the crispy pancetta. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving.

This Italian Mac and Cheese offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite, with rich flavors and a delightful crunch from the pancetta!

What to serve with Italian Mac and Cheese?

Mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside chicken options like Fennel Chicken Thighs, Cast Iron Chicken Breast, or Italian Chicken Cutlets. These flavorful proteins complement the creamy pasta beautifully. To balance the richness, add a vegetable side, such as Italian Lacinato Kale, Italian Cabbage, or Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts.

These greens not only add a nutritious element but also provide a delightful contrast to the gooey cheese. Together, these combinations create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

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