A luscious, golden, and irresistibly cheesy Mediterranean-style mac & cheese that brings sunshine to your table.
Made with a blend of creamy cheeses, extra-virgin olive oil, and hints of herbs and garlic, this comforting dish blends rustic Italian warmth with the cozy familiarity of baked pasta. Perfect as a main course or hearty side for family gatherings.

🍝 Ingredients

Serves 6–8

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rigatoni)
  • Salt, for boiling water

For the Mediterranean Cheese Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter for richness)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk, warmed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or evaporated milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herbs
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
  • 1 cup shredded provolone or kasseri cheese (optional, for more Mediterranean flavor)

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

Optional Mediterranean Add-ins:

  • ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • ¼ cup chopped Kalamata olives
  • 1 cup chopped spinach or roasted red peppers

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook 1–2 minutes less than package instructions — it should be slightly firm (al dente).
  3. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Make the Mediterranean Cheese Sauce

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil (and butter, if using) over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste (a roux).
  3. Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  4. Add cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, nutmeg, and oregano.
  5. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
  6. Reduce heat to low, then stir in the mozzarella, feta, Parmesan, and provolone (or kasseri). Tip: Add the cheeses gradually and stir until fully melted and velvety.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add the cooked pasta directly into the cheese sauce and toss until every piece is coated.
  2. If using optional ingredients (spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives), fold them in now for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.

4. Prepare the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, olive oil, Parmesan, and herbs.
  2. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated in oil — this gives a beautiful golden crunch.

5. Assemble and Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 2-quart (or 9×13-inch) baking dish with olive oil or butter.
  3. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
  4. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the surface.
  5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes — but keep a close eye on it!

6. Serve

Let the baked pasta cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Scoop into bowls and enjoy the gooey, stretchy cheese with every bite.

Serve with:

  • A crisp Mediterranean salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onion, and lemon-olive oil dressing)
  • A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
  • Fresh herbs sprinkled on top for aroma and color

🌿 Variations

  • Greek-Inspired: Add spinach and feta for a “Spanakopita Mac & Cheese.”
  • Italian Style: Mix in roasted garlic, basil, and diced tomatoes.
  • Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for a hearty meal.
  • Vegan Mediterranean: Use plant-based cheese, olive oil, and non-dairy milk; replace feta with vegan cashew cheese.

🫒 Chef’s Tips

  • Cheese choice matters: Combining melty (mozzarella) and tangy (feta, Parmesan) cheeses gives perfect flavor balance.
  • Don’t skip the olive oil: It adds depth and a subtle Mediterranean aroma.
  • Leftovers: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly again.

🍽️ Summary

This Mediterranean Three-Cheese Baked Pasta is everything you love about comfort food — creamy, rich, and golden — yet infused with sunny herbs, tangy feta, and silky olive oil. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a warm, cheesy embrace of Mediterranean flavor.