From the Cook
1/2
Pink Sauce Mac & Cheese
Instructions
1
|
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2
|
In a large pan, melt butter with a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
3
|
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
4
|
Stir in tomato paste and cook until deep red, then pour in tomato sauce.
5
|
Simmer briefly, then add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6
|
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
7
|
Add cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
8
|
Toss in the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Simmer for a few more minutes to combine.
9
|
Top with extra Parmesan and enjoy warm.
My Calorie Intake
Review & Earn
Be the first to review this recipe and earn a 20% Bonus
Level up & unlock free Premium by reviewing recipes!
My Notes
Your kitchen notebook is waiting.
Whether it's a recipe tweak or an inspiration burst — jot it down here.
Tips & Tricks (5)
- Pasta Water Magic 💧Always reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining - its starchy consistency is perfect for creating a silky, emulsified pink sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Cheese Layering Technique 🧀Grate your cheeses fresh and add them gradually off the heat, stirring constantly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy texture without graininess.
- Tomato Paste Caramelization 🍅Toast the tomato paste in the pan for 1-2 minutes before adding other liquids to develop a deeper, more concentrated flavor profile and remove any raw metallic taste.
- Garlic Infusion Hack 🧄Mince garlic fine and let it sit for 10 minutes before cooking to activate its allicin compounds, maximizing both flavor intensity and potential health benefits.
- Fresh Basil Finishing Touch 🌿Tear fresh basil leaves instead of chopping to prevent bruising, and add them at the very end of cooking to preserve their vibrant color and aromatic oils.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Vegetarian
Low Sugar
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
More Recipes by These Carbs Don't Count
Check out more These Carbs Don't Count content!Browse These Carbs Don't Count recipes!
No Recipes Available
EXPLORE
Looking for more?
Use our smart searchtool, explore by category, or browse your customized food feed.