spinach mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best spinach mac and cheese recipe

I’ve been making spinach mac and cheese for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. My kids love the creamy sauce and the way the spinach adds a burst of flavor to each bite.

I love that it’s a comforting, homestyle dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes.

I like to use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese for an extra rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main dish, as a side, or even as a dip.

And let’s not forget the health benefits – spinach is packed with nutrients and adds a boost of iron to this comforting dish. My family loves when I serve this at family gatherings because everyone always raves about it.

It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck, this spinach mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Spinach Mac and Cheese

4.9 from 584 votes

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish packed with spinach for a nutritious and comforting meal. This spinach mac and cheese is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni

For the Spinach and Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns light brown.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
10The sauce should be smooth and velvety.
11Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
12Continue to cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
13Add the fresh spinach to the cheese sauce and stir until it wilts and is fully incorporated into the sauce.
14The spinach will turn bright green and reduce in volume as it cooks.
15Remove the sauce from the heat.
16In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil.
Set aside.
17Combine the cooked pasta and the spinach cheese sauce in a large bowl, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
18Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
19Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
20Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly around the edges.
21Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
22This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
23Serve the spinach mac and cheese hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Whisk
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.

This spinach mac and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck.

It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress and can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven for future meals.

I love serving leftovers in individual portions for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using macaroni or another type of short pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce well. Avoid using long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine, as they won’t hold up to the sauce as well.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach in place of fresh spinach. Just make sure to thaw it out first and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the recipe.

Q: How long does this recipe take to make?

A: This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and easy option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time by cooking the pasta and making the cheese sauce separately. Then, simply assemble everything together just before serving.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free pasta.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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