Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese

Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese You’ll Want to Make Tonight

A delightful twist on a classic, this creamy spinach mac and cheese is quick and nutritious, perfect for comfort food lovers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Macaroni Feel free to swap for gluten-free pasta if desired.
For the Spinach Sauce
  • 4 cups Spinach Baby spinach enhances flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion Can be substituted with shallots.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is ideal.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Substitute with butter if preferred.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 1 cup Mature Cheddar Cheese Opt for reduced-fat to cut calories.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can replace for dairy-free.
For the Creamy Base
  • 2 cups Semi-skimmed Milk Almond or oat milk can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Vegan butter can be used for dairy-free.
  • 2 tbsp Flour Cornstarch can be used as gluten-free alternative.
Seasoning
  • to taste Sea Salt
  • to taste White Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • blender
  • Cooking spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve a splash of cooking water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add baby spinach to the skillet, and cook until wilted, about 1 minute. Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
  4. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add 2 cups of milk while whisking until the sauce thickens.
  5. Stir in the spinach puree, 1 cup of cheddar, and ½ cup of parmesan until melted and creamy.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, tossing gently. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to 3 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!