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Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 113 reviews

This Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese is a rich and comforting dish combining creamy cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce with tender elbow macaroni and nutritious spinach. Baked to golden perfection with a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping, it’s a delightful twist on a classic mac and cheese, perfect as a hearty side or main course.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • Salt, for pasta water

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)

Topping (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat And Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water until al dente, as per package directions. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Sauté Onion And Garlic: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Make Roux: Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden and emits a nutty aroma.
  5. Make Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes until thickened to a creamy sauce consistency.
  6. Season Sauce: Add ground nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper to taste, seasoning the sauce perfectly.
  7. Add Spinach And Cheese: Incorporate the thawed, drained spinach along with shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir until all cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Optionally, add mustard powder for an extra flavor boost.
  8. Combine With Macaroni: Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until each piece is thoroughly coated.
  9. Transfer To Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly for uniform baking.
  10. Add Topping (Optional): Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy, golden crust.
  11. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the sauce bubbles around the edges.
  12. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful mac and cheese with a healthy twist of spinach.

Notes

  • Drain and squeeze excess water from the thawed spinach to prevent a watery sauce.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a bold and tangy cheese flavor.
  • Mustard powder is optional but enhances the cheese’s depth of flavor.
  • Panko breadcrumbs add a crispy topping but can be omitted for a softer finish.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: creamed spinach mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, spinach mac and cheese recipe, cheesy spinach pasta, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://jedentaglecker.com/creamed-spinach-mac-and-cheese-recipe/