Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, blending creamy cheese sauce with nutritious spinach. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special family meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• Salt, for pasta water
• 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)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and fragrant, forming a roux.
5. Step 5: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Step 6: Season the sauce with ground nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Step 7: Stir in the thawed and drained chopped spinach, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add mustard powder if using.
8. Step 8: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
9. Step 9: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
10. Step 10: If desired, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top for added crunch.
11. Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
12. Step 12: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try using a blend of cheeses such as Gruyère or Fontina along with cheddar.
• Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the thawed spinach to avoid a watery sauce.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle spicy kick.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for special diets.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach. Use about 4 cups of fresh spinach, sauté it briefly until wilted, and drain any excess moisture before adding to the cheese sauce.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work well for the topping. You can also skip the topping entirely for a softer finish.

Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 150 reviews

This Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese is a rich and comforting twist on the classic favorite, combining creamy cheese sauce with nutritious spinach and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Baked to golden perfection with an optional crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Onion And Garlic: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.
5. Make Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes.
6. Season Sauce: Add ground nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper to the sauce, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
7. Add Spinach And Cheese: Mix in the thawed and well-drained chopped spinach, shredded sharp cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If you like, add the mustard powder for extra flavor.
8. Combine With Macaroni: Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce mixture, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated.
9. Transfer To Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
10. Add Topping (Optional): Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of the dish to create a crunchy topping.
11. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
12. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese!

Notes

• Make sure to thoroughly drain the thawed spinach to avoid excess liquid in the cheese sauce.
• Panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a softer topping.
• Mustard powder is optional but enhances the depth of flavor.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor; mild cheddar will result in a gentler taste.
• For a lighter version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with lower-fat dairy options.

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