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Weeknight • Vegetarian

Creamy Garlic Spinach Mac and Cheese

A grown-up twist on a classic, this mac and cheese features a rich garlic sauce and fresh spinach for extra goodness.

Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
6
Level
Weeknight
Creamy Garlic Spinach Mac and Cheese

Who says mac and cheese can't be sophisticated and comforting at the same time? This Creamy Garlic Spinach Mac and Cheese takes your favorite childhood dish and elevates it with a dreamy, garlicky sauce and a boost of healthy spinach. It's the ultimate cheesy indulgence that's still approachable enough for any weeknight. Get ready for cozy perfection!

Ingredients

Yield: 6 servings

Main

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or other small pasta shape
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz Gruyère cheese, shredded (or more cheddar)
  • 5 oz fresh spinach

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

  2. Step 2

    While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  3. Step 3

    Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.

  4. Step 4

    Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in Dijon mustard (if using) and onion powder.

  5. Step 5

    Remove from heat. Add shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. (You may need more salt than you think!)

  6. Step 6

    Add the fresh spinach to the cheese sauce in batches, stirring until wilted. Stir in the drained cooked pasta, tossing to coat completely in the creamy sauce.

  7. Step 7

    Serve immediately. For an extra decadent touch, you can transfer to a baking dish, top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Tips

  • For best results, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect melt.
  • Don't overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce.
  • A pinch of nutmeg added to the cheese sauce can enhance its flavor.

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