There’s a cozy magic that fills the kitchen when the oven timer dings, and you pull out a bubbling dish of Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese. Imagine the rich, creamy cheese sauce melding perfectly with tender elbow macaroni and vibrant, nutritious spinach. The delightful combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan not only offers a satisfying depth of flavor, but the hint of nutmeg warms the entire dish, wrapping you in a comforting embrace.
Whether you’re seeking a new go-to meal for family dinners or a sophisticated side dish for a gathering, this recipe dazzles with its simplicity and delightful taste. With every cheesy, velvety bite, you’ll experience a satisfying indulgence that proves comfort food can also be a nourishing choice. So grab your ingredients, let’s elevate the classic mac and cheese with a twist that will leave you—and everyone at your table—wanting more!
Why choose Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese?
Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for both cooking novices and seasoned chefs.
Rich, Creamy Flavor: Each bite showcases a heavenly blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan, perfectly complemented by nutmeg.
Nutritious Twist: By incorporating spinach, you boost the dish’s nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This comforting meal is sure to win over family and friends, becoming a staple in your home.
Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or a side, it pairs beautifully with a salad for balance. Don’t forget to check out our serving suggestions for more ideas!
Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Elbow Macaroni – This is the structural base for the dish; don’t hesitate to substitute it with any pasta shape you enjoy!
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the pasta water, ensuring your macaroni is perfectly seasoned.
For the Cheese Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; feel free to use olive oil for a lighter option.
• Onion – Provides aromatics and depth of flavor, or use shallots for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with a savory aroma; fresh or powdered garlic can work based on preference.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce; gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-free version.
• Whole Milk – Creates a creamy base for the sauce; low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative will work too.
• Heavy Cream – Increases creaminess; use more milk if you prefer a lighter sauce.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile; omit if you don’t have it on hand.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; try white pepper for a different flavor if you like.
For the Spinach and Cheese
• Frozen Chopped Spinach – Incorporates nutrition and color; fresh spinach can be used too—just adjust the amount.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Offers the primary cheesy flavor; swap with your favorite melting cheese if desired.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a bit of saltiness and depth; try Pecorino Romano as an alternative.
Optional Ingredients
• Mustard Powder – Adds a tangy kick; you can omit it for a milder flavor.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crunchy topping; feel free to use regular breadcrumbs instead.
Dive into the experience of creating this delicious Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
How to Make Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure easy serving later on.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Make a Roux: Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until golden. This will form the base of your creamy cheese sauce.
Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Season the Sauce: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The flavors will blend beautifully!
Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of thawed frozen chopped spinach and both 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. If you like, add 1 teaspoon of mustard powder for an extra zing.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated with that luscious creamy goodness.
Prepare for Baking: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs for that delightful crunch.
Bake It: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—for patience pays off with perfect texture!
Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil before baking for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese
- Thick Sauce Trick: Ensure the sauce is thick enough to coat the pasta; reduce cooking time if necessary for the perfect consistency.
- Prevent Overcooking: Avoid overcooking the macaroni, as it will continue to cook in the oven, leading to a mushy texture.
- Milk Mixing Technique: Stir continuously when adding milk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce, ensuring a smooth blend.
- Crunchy Topping: For an extra crispy texture, broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking after achieving a golden color.
- Spinach Substitution: If using fresh spinach, remember to adjust the quantity; you’ll need roughly double the amount compared to frozen.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, like gouda or fontina, to create your own signature take on this Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese.
How to Store and Freeze Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring it retains its creamy texture.
- Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated thoroughly. Stir in a splash of milk if it appears dry, reviving that luscious Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese sauce!
Variations & Substitutions for Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese
Let your creativity shine and customize this dish to match your family’s taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and vegan cheese to create a creamy sauce without dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta or use quinoa for a unique twist.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in roasted broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to spice it up and thrill your taste buds.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a rich, gourmet flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful texture contrast.
- Top it Off: Use crushed tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs for an exciting crunch and flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
Explore these variations and make this Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese your own, letting your culinary imagination run wild!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights. Simply follow the recipe through step 8, then store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, reheat the sauce gently before mixing it with the pasta, ensuring it’s just as creamy as when you made it. When ready to enjoy, pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly—your delicious meal will taste freshly made!
What to Serve with Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that balance flavors and textures beautifully!
Light Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a crisp contrast to the creamy richness of the mac and cheese. Toss in seasonal veggies for a colorful touch.
Garlic Bread: Slices of toasted garlic bread provide a crunchy, buttery complement that perfectly accents the soft cheesiness of the dish. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a medley of roasted vegetables for a hearty, healthy side that adds both color and nutrients, balancing the creaminess with earthy flavors.
Grilled Chicken or Fish: For those wanting to add protein, grilled chicken or fish works wonderfully, providing a light and savory complement to the richness of the mac and cheese.
Steamed Green Beans: The crispness and slight bitterness of steamed green beans provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the creaminess and delivering a burst of color.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal, offering a light acidity that balances the richness of the Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese.
Chocolate Dessert: Finish the meal with a light chocolate mousse or a chocolate tart; the sweetness pairs delightfully with the savory nature of the dish for a satisfying conclusion.
With these pairings, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that harmonizes beautifully with your creamy, comforting mac and cheese!
Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese Recipe FAQs
What is the best type of pasta to use for Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for this dish, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes. Penne, shells, or fusilli can all work beautifully, providing unique textures that hold onto the creamy sauce well.
How long can I store leftover Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving. I often find that a quick reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes restores its creaminess perfectly!
Can I freeze Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese?
Yes! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. For the best result, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
What if my cheese sauce turns lumpy?
Very! If your cheese sauce ends up lumpy, don’t panic. For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to mash the lumps out or strain the sauce through a fine sieve. Additionally, always add the cheese gradually and stir continuously to help prevent lumps from forming during the cooking process.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! You can easily make Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Likewise, ensure that your pasta is labeled gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without worries!
Is there a way to add more vegetables to this recipe?
I often include additional veggies for variety! Broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can be excellent additions. Just prepare them beforehand and mix them in when you’re combining the macaroni with the cheese sauce, providing both flavor and nutrition.
Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese: Irresistibly Cheesy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until golden, forming the base for your cheese sauce.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream. Stir until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add ground nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Mix in thawed frozen chopped spinach, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Gently fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, coating every piece.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spread evenly, and top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
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