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These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

May 13, 2025

16 Ingredients
MEDIUM

This Pink Sauce Mac & Cheese is the best of both worlds—part classic red sauce, part cheesy mac & cheese. It starts with butter, garlic, tomato paste, and tomato sauce to build a rich, savory base. Heavy cream and a trio of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan take it over the top, creating a creamy, tangy, and deeply satisfying pasta. Fresh basil adds brightness, while a splash of reserved pasta water ties it all together for the ultimate comfort bowl.

Pink Sauce Mac & Cheese
Pink Sauce Mac & Cheese cover
From the Cook
1/2

Pink Sauce Mac & Cheese

By
These Carbs Don't Count
These Carbs Don't CountVerified

Ingredients

bowls
Milk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

1
|
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
2
|
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add a dash of olive oil. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
3
|
Stir in tomato paste and cook until it turns dark red. Then add tomato sauce and mix well.
4
|
Once simmering, pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5
|
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
6
|
Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped basil. Mix until cheese is melted and smooth.
7
|
Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to coat and let everything simmer for a few minutes.
8
|
Serve hot, topped with more Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Bite Tutorial

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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)

  • Pasta Water Gold 💧
    Always reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining - it's the secret to creating a silky, emulsified sauce that clings perfectly to the fusilli.
  • Tomato Paste Caramelization 🍅
    Toast the tomato paste in the butter for 2-3 minutes before adding other liquids to develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile and eliminate any raw tomato taste.
  • Cheese Melting Technique 🧀
    Add cheeses off the heat and stir gradually to prevent separation, creating a smooth and creamy sauce - mix in small handfuls while continuously stirring.
  • Garlic Infusion Hack 🧄
    Gently grate or mince garlic and let it bloom in olive oil for maximum flavor extraction before adding other ingredients.
  • Fresh Basil Enhancement 🌿
    Tear basil leaves instead of chopping to prevent bruising and preserve their delicate oils, adding them just before serving for maximum aromatic impact.

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About the Cook

These Carbs Don't Count

These Carbs Don't Count

Verified

Hi! I’m Angela and if you’re reading this you probably love carbs & pasta and you’ve come to the right place. I’m so excited to share delicious recipes, cooking tips, gluten free life & restaurant recs! Welcome carbies and subscribe for more content! Link above :)

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