Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese: A Cheesy Delight

Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese is the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods: creamy macaroni and cheese with the added goodness of spinach. This dish combines tender elbow macaroni, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and vibrant spinach to create a comforting and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner option or a crowd-pleasing side dish for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, we’ll explore keto and low-carb variations to suit different dietary preferences.

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. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture until it begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce: Add the ground nutmeg, freshly ground black pepper, and optional mustard powder to the sauce, stirring to incorporate.
6. Incorporate the Spinach and Cheese: Stir in the thawed and drained chopped spinach, followed by the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the spinach is heated through.
7. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese and spinach mixture, stirring until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
8. Optional Topping: If desired, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the top with optional panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
9. Bake or Serve: Bake the mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Alternatively, serve the mac and cheese directly from the stovetop for a creamy and comforting meal.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese with freshly chopped parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations

• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
• Add Protein: For extra protein, consider adding cooked and diced chicken, ham, or bacon to the mac and cheese mixture.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, fontina, or Monterey Jack, to customize the flavor of your mac and cheese.
• Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options

• Keto-Friendly Pasta: Replace the elbow macaroni with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
• Low-Carb Thickener: Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce without adding extra carbs.
• Use Cream Instead of Milk: Replace the whole milk with heavy cream for a creamier, higher-fat option that fits into a keto diet.

Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese with the nutritious addition of spinach. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and vibrant spinach, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Plus, with the option to customize the recipe with different cheeses, proteins, and spices, you can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, Creamed Spinach Mac & Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.