Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines the creamy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese with the fresh, vibrant flavors of a Caprese salad. Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce, topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella, all baked to golden perfection in one skillet. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and summer freshness, making it a delightful meal for any time of the year.

The balance of gooey cheese, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil makes this dish a standout. Plus, the ease of making everything in one skillet means less cleanup and more time to enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese will quickly become a favorite in your household.

This recipe brings together two beloved dishes—Caprese salad and macaroni and cheese—into one decadent, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

1. One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet, perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Creamy and Fresh: The rich cheese sauce is balanced by fresh basil and juicy tomatoes, adding a burst of flavor to the creamy pasta.
3. Melty Cheese Heaven: A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan gives this dish a deliciously gooey texture and deep flavor.
4. Family-Friendly: It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that both kids and adults will love.
5. Customizable: You can easily add chicken, vegetables, or experiment with different types of cheese to make it your own.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Serving Size: 1 large portion (about 1 ½ cups)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 580 kcal
• Carbs: 56g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

(These values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes.)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese:

For the Macaroni and Cheese:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% for a creamier sauce)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for richness, or substitute with more milk)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Caprese Topping:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ½ cups fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional, but adds a lovely sweetness)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Grilled chicken or cooked sausage for added protein
• Spinach or arugula for extra greens
• Panko breadcrumbs, for a crunchy topping

For Garnishing:

• Fresh basil, for a burst of flavor
• Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Red pepper flakes, for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Make a Roux:

In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and lightly golden. This creates a roux, which will thicken the cheese sauce.

2. Add the Milk and Cream:

Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

3. Add the Cheese:

Once the sauce has thickened, lower the heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4. Season the Sauce:

Stir in the garlic powder, Italian herbs (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix the Pasta and Sauce:

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce, making sure every piece is covered with the rich, creamy cheese.

Step 4: Add the Caprese Topping

1. Prepare the Tomatoes and Mozzarella:

In a small bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Top the Macaroni:

Scatter the fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) and cherry tomatoes over the top of the pasta in the skillet.

Step 5: Bake the Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese

1. Bake the Pasta:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

2. Optional Broil:

For a crispy, golden top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the skillet is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Serve the Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese hot, with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes on the side for those who like a bit of heat.

How to Serve

• As a Main Dish: Serve this cheesy skillet bake with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For Entertaining: This skillet dish is perfect for sharing at potlucks, family gatherings, or casual dinners with friends.
• For a Cozy Night In: Pair it with a glass of wine and enjoy this comforting meal on a relaxing evening.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures that the macaroni doesn’t become too soft.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil are key to the Caprese flavor, so use the best-quality ingredients you can find.
3. Season the Cheese Sauce Well: Be sure to taste the cheese sauce before combining it with the pasta. Adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your liking to ensure the sauce is flavorful.
4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Baking the dish until the cheese is golden and bubbly ensures the best texture—crispy on the edges but creamy and gooey in the middle.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping: If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the top before baking. This adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

Recipe Variations

This Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese is delicious as is, but it’s also easy to customize. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Caprese Chicken Mac and Cheese:

Add grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken to the pasta before baking for a heartier, protein-packed meal.

2. Gluten-Free Caprese Mac and Cheese:

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure to use gluten-free flour for the roux to create a gluten-free version of this dish. The cheesy goodness will still shine through!

3. Caprese Mac and Cheese with Spinach:

Stir a handful of fresh spinach into the cheese sauce before adding the pasta for a boost of greens. The spinach wilts into the creamy sauce, adding both color and nutrients.

4. Caprese Mac and Cheese with Pesto:

For an extra layer of flavor, swirl in a spoonful of basil pesto into the cheese sauce before baking. The pesto adds a herby freshness that complements the Caprese toppings beautifully.

5. Low-Carb Caprese Mac and Cheese:

Swap out the pasta for cauliflower florets to make a low-carb version of this dish. The cauliflower will soak up the cheesy sauce just like pasta, and it pairs well with the Caprese flavors.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Freezing:

You can freeze this dish before baking. Assemble the macaroni and cheese in the skillet (without baking), then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Special Equipment

• Large Oven-Safe Skillet: This dish is easiest when made in a large, oven-safe skillet. A cast-iron skillet works particularly well for even cooking and a crispy top.
• Whisk: For making a smooth cheese sauce.
• Fine-Mesh Sieve: To drain the pasta easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni for this recipe.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

3. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

To avoid a grainy sauce, make sure to use low heat when adding the cheese to the milk and cream mixture. Stir constantly and don’t let the sauce boil, as this can cause the cheese to separate.

4. Can I make this without an oven-safe skillet?

If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, simply transfer the pasta and cheese sauce to a baking dish before adding the toppings and baking in the oven.

5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. For the best results, shred your own cheese from a block.

Conclusion

This Skillet Caprese Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect combination of comforting, creamy pasta and fresh, vibrant Caprese flavors. It’s an easy, family-friendly dish that feels indulgent yet light, thanks to the addition of fresh basil and tomatoes. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta bake is sure to be a hit.

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as I do! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own by adding extra proteins, veggies, or different cheeses.