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Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese

Creamy Spinach Mac and Cheese: A Healthy Twist on Comfort Food

Enjoy a healthier take on mac and cheese with this creamy spinach version that delights the palate and nourishes the body.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Casseroles
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Macaroni can be substituted with any short pasta
For the Greens
  • 4 cups Spinach baby spinach for milder taste
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion or shallots/leeks
  • 2 cloves Garlic or garlic powder to taste
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or any neutral oil/butter
  • 1 cup Mature Cheddar Cheese or Gruyere/lactose-free alternative
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese optional nutritional yeast for vegan
  • cups Semi-Skimmed Milk or plant-based milk as a substitute
  • tablespoons Butter or margarine for dairy-free
  • 2 tablespoons Flour gluten-free flour suitable
Seasoning
  • to taste Sea salt
  • to taste White pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • blender
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over low heat. Sauté chopped onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in spinach and cook for 1 minute until wilted. Remove from heat.
  4. Puree the spinach mixture in a blender until smooth.
  5. In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
  6. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Add spinach puree and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
  7. Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni, ensuring all pieces are coated. Season to taste.
  8. Serve warm with additional cheese or parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Avoid frozen spinach for desired texture.

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