- VE
- LS
These Carbs Don't Count
May 13, 2025
This Pink Sauce Mac & Cheese combines the savory richness of mac and cheese with the vibrant flavor of tomato cream sauce. Butter and garlic form the base, then tomato paste and sauce are layered in to deepen the flavor. A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese melts into a creamy blend, brightened with fresh basil and finished with starchy pasta water. It’s a bold, cheesy, deeply satisfying pasta you’ll crave again and again.
17 Ingredients
MEDIUM
Instructions
1
|
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
2
|
In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter with a dash of olive oil.
3
|
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4
|
Stir in tomato paste and cook until it turns a deep red color, about 2–3 minutes.
5
|
Add tomato sauce and bring to a gentle simmer.
6
|
Pour in heavy cream, then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well.
7
|
Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
8
|
Stir in chopped basil.
9
|
Add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Mix everything together and let it cook for 2–3 minutes to thicken.
10
|
Top with more Parmesan and serve hot.
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Cheese Layering Magic 🧀Grate your cheeses fresh and add them gradually, stirring constantly to create a smooth, emulsified sauce without clumping.
- Pasta Water Gold 💧Always reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining - it's the secret to creating a silky, clingy sauce that perfectly coats the noodles.
- Tomato Paste Caramelization 🍅Toast the tomato paste in the butter for 1-2 minutes before adding other liquids to develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion Technique 🌿Chiffonade your fresh basil by stacking, rolling, and thinly slicing to release maximum flavor and create beautiful garnish presentation.
- Cream Stabilization Trick 🥛Add heavy cream off the direct heat and stir continuously to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, luxurious sauce texture.
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Pink Sauce Mac & Cheese
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