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Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.3 from 6 reviews

Creamy Spinach Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting, flavorful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese. This easy-to-make dish combines tender cavatappi pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce infused with fresh spinach and garlic, making it a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz. cavatappi macaroni, uncooked (or any other pasta)

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 1½ cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¾ teaspoon black pepper, fresh cracked
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 2 handfuls fresh spinach, lightly chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil the cavatappi macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make Roux and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is well combined and forms a roux.
  3. Add Dairy and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk and half and half, then add salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Incorporate Cheese: Lower the heat and add in the sharp white cheddar and grated parmesan cheese. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the sauce.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the cheese sauce and stir well to coat all the pasta. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to warm through.
  7. Serve: Garnish with extra freshly grated parmesan cheese and serve immediately for a creamy, comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute cavatappi with elbow macaroni, shells, or any short pasta shape you prefer.
  • For a sharper flavor, use extra sharp cheddar cheese.
  • If you want a thicker sauce, let it cook a few extra minutes on low heat while stirring gently.
  • Fresh spinach can be swapped with frozen spinach; just thaw and drain excess water before adding.
  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry instead of all-purpose flour for thickening.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/creamy-spinach-mac-and-cheese-recipe/