spinach mac n cheese recipe

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

I’ve always been a fan of classic comfort food, and one of my all-time favorites is a good ol’ fashioned spinach mac n cheese. There’s just something about the combination of creamy pasta, gooey cheese, and nutritious spinach that hits the spot every time. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and good for my family. This spinach mac n cheese recipe checks all those boxes and more.

It’s a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you today. I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for ways to get my kids to eat more greens. Let’s be real, getting kids to eat healthy can be a challenge. But this spinach mac n cheese is a game-changer.

The way the flavors meld together is just magic, and my kids devour it every time. I’ve made it countless times, and it never fails to impress. One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish, add some protein like chicken or bacon for a main course, or even make it in individual ramekins for a fun twist.

The possibilities are endless! As for the technique behind this recipe, it’s all about layering the flavors and textures. You start with a creamy pasta base, then add in the spinach and cheese mixture, and finally top it all off with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate this classic comfort food dish.

I’ve experimented with different types of pasta and cheese over the years, but I find that good ol’ fashioned elbow macaroni and cheddar work best for this recipe. The key is to use high-quality ingredients that will give you the best flavor possible. In addition to being delicious, this spinach mac n cheese is also surprisingly healthy. With its high levels of spinach and whole wheat pasta, you can feel good about serving it to your family without worrying about loading them up with junk food.

Spinach Mac N Cheese

Spinach Mac N Cheese

4.6 from 1042 votes

Creamy macaroni and cheese loaded with spinach, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

Pasta

12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp flour
3 cups whole milk
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika

Spinach

2 cups fresh spinach

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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 it aside.
5In a large saucepan, melt the butter 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, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Continue to cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
10This should take about 5-7 minutes.
11Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
12Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
13Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
14Add the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts and is evenly distributed throughout the cheese sauce.
15Add the cooked pasta to the cheese and spinach mixture.
16Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
17Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
18Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
19Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧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 use frozen spinach if fresh is not available. Thaw and drain it well before adding to the cheese sauce.

This spinach mac n cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want something comforting after a long day.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it freezes – simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat in the microwave when you’re ready for an easy meal solution.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Mac N Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

The best type of pasta for this recipe is elbow macaroni.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach as long as you thaw it properly before using.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from getting too browned?

To prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, try covering your dish with foil during baking.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the pasta and cheese mixture separately before combining them just before baking.

Q: Is there a substitute for cheddar cheese?

You can use other types of cheese such as mozzarella or provolone as substitutes for cheddar.

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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