Italian Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Cook the penne in a large pot of salted water, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside in a colander.

Step 2

Using the same pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted whisk in the flour and cook the roux (butter-flour mixture) for 1 minute. Then add the garlic and whisk in the milk and 4 ounces cream cheese. Bring to a simmer and whisk until the mixture is thick and smooth.

Step 3

Add the shredded cheese and whisk until smooth. Pour the cooked pasta, olives, sliced meat and basil. Stir to coat.

Step 4

Pour the macaroni into a 10x10-inch baking dish and sprinkle the top with panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with olive oil. *For creamy baked mac and cheese, place the baked mac and cheese in the oven under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watch carefully. You want the top to toast, but not burn. **For more a traditional "firm" baked mac and cheese recipe, bake for 20 minutes until the tops are golden.

Step 5

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped parsley and serve warm.