Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese

When you think of comfort food, macaroni and cheese often tops the list. But what if we took this classic dish and infused it with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean? That’s exactly what this Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese does! With the incorporation of fire-roasted tomatoes, olives, and a medley of cheeses, this dish transforms the humble mac and cheese into a culinary delight that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. This recipe is not only creamy and cheesy but also bursts with flavor, making it a unique twist on a beloved classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful fusion that brings together the richness of traditional mac and cheese with the fresh and bold tastes of Mediterranean cuisine. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how it can serve as a hearty main dish or a side. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of feta cheese, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that elevates this dish.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile: It can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins, making it adaptable to different tastes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

What Goes Into Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese

To create this mouthwatering Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained well
• 1/3 cup chopped black olives or kalamata olives
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
• 2 Tbsp butter, plus more for baking dish
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1 large clove garlic, finely minced
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 6 oz crumbled feta cheese
• 2 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Essential Tools for Success

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large Pot: For boiling the macaroni.
• Large Skillet or Saucepan: To prepare the cheese sauce.
• Baking Dish: For baking the final dish.
• Whisk: Essential for combining the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring and mixing.

Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese: How It’s Done

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making your Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese! Follow these steps for a delicious outcome.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt, pepper, chopped basil, and dried oregano.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. Gently fold in the drained fire-roasted tomatoes and chopped olives, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter and pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped fresh basil before serving. Enjoy this Mediterranean twist on a classic comfort food!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

This Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese can be easily adapted for different occasions. Here are some variations to consider:

• Add steamed spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Swap out the feta for goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Include artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flair.

Author’s Commentary

This Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese is one of my absolute favorite recipes to whip up when I’m craving something comforting yet vibrant. The combination of creamy cheeses with the briny olives and sweet roasted tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but also impressive enough for gatherings. I love to experiment with different ingredients based on what I have in my pantry, making it a versatile dish that never gets old.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Want to save some time? This Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese can easily be made ahead. Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, and then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights!

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, shells, or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the roux.

Can I freeze Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese?

Yes, this dish can be frozen! Assemble it as directed, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, grilled vegetables, or garlic bread. You can also serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Classic Baked Ziti
• Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Risotto
• Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Wrap-Up

This Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese is destined to be a new family favorite. Its creamy texture, combined with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, creates a dish that is both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, it’s sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and dive into this deliciously unique take on a classic comfort food. You won’t regret it!

Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese

This Mediterranean Macaroni and Cheese is a vibrant twist on a classic! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, drained well
• 1/3 cup chopped black olives or kalamata olives
• 1 Tbsp chopped fresh basil plus more for garnish
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
• 2 Tbsp butter plus more for baking dish
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1 large clove garlic finely minced
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 6 oz crumbled feta cheese
• 2 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Method

 

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt, pepper, chopped basil, and dried oregano.
5. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated. Gently fold in the drained fire-roasted tomatoes and chopped olives, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter and pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped fresh basil before serving. Enjoy this Mediterranean twist on a classic comfort food!

Notes

• Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for added flavor.
• Make ahead by preparing the dish up to baking and refrigerate for 24 hours.
• Freezes well; assemble and freeze for up to 3 months.